Canada’s male and female flag football teams have progressed to the quarterfinals of the flag football world championships being held in Germany. The Canadian men were defeated 37-28 by Japan, securing second place in their group with a 2-1 record. Due to Nigeria’s withdrawal from the tournament because of visa issues, Canada was awarded an automatic win. Japan’s Take Taniguchi threw five touchdown passes, while Canada’s former CFL quarterback Michael O’Connor threw three TD passes. The Canadian men will now face American Samoa in the quarterfinals after American Samoa upset the top-ranked U.S. team.
On the other hand, the Canadian women topped their group with a perfect 3-0 record following a 34-20 victory over Japan. They are set to play against Austria in the quarterfinals, with a potential semifinal against the winner of Mexico and Spain. Quarterback Sara Parker led the Canadian women with four touchdown passes, two of which were caught by Caroline Moquin-Joubert. Additional touchdown catches were made by Alexane Fournier and Marianne Quirion, while Frederique Morneau scored a rushing touchdown.
The flag football world championships not only determine the world title but also offer a chance for teams to secure spots for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games. The top two finishers at the championships will earn Olympic berths as the sport makes its Olympic debut. All matches of the event are available for live streaming on CBCSports.ca and CBC Gem.