Both Nigeria’s men’s and women’s flag football teams seized gold at the inaugural International Federation of American Football (IFAF) Africa Flag Football Championship in Cairo. The thrilling event, held at Club One Stadium in Maadi from 20–21 June, saw 11 teams from eight African countries compete fiercely on the field. americanfootball.sport+4punchng.com+4guardian.ng+4
The men’s final delivered a nail‑biting finish as Nigeria edged Egypt 13‑12, with Folawiyo Farouk landing the decisive extra point. Speaking after the match, quarterback Hayes Obinna‑Uzoh captured the mood, saying, “It’s amazing, it’s surreal, it’s history, it’s unbelievable.” premiumtimesng.com
On the women’s side, Nigeria’s team showcased dominating form, defeating Morocco 26‑12. Quarterback Anuoluwapo Bello shone in the second half, throwing two crucial touchdowns that sealed victory. premiumtimesng.com+2punchng.com+2guardian.ng+2
These victories secure automatic qualification for both teams at the 2026 IFAF Flag Football World Championships—an important stepping stone as flag football prepares for its debut at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. americanfootball.sport+6punchng.com+6guardian.ng+6
IFAF president Pierre Trochet praised the tournament’s success, highlighting the “enormous talent and passion” across the continent and commending Egypt for hosting a seamless event. punchng.com+1guardian.ng+1
🔹 Men’s Final: Nigeria 13–12 Egypt (Tunisia third)
🔹 Women’s Final: Nigeria 26–12 Morocco (Egypt third) premiumtimesng.com+2punchng.com+2guardian.ng+2
This continental sweep positions Nigeria as a formidable force in African flag football and boosts the sport’s profile ahead of its Olympic journey. The success also supports the NFL and IFAF’s shared mission to grow flag football across Africa. americanfootball.sport+11punchng.com+11premiumtimesng.com+11
