ELF playoff race tightens as contenders jockey for position at 2025 midpoint

| American Football | 07/02/2025

The Vienna Vikings (5–1) and Munich Ravens (5–1) currently lead the European League of Football playoff race, while the undefeated Nordic Storm (5–0) and defending champions Rhein Fire (4–2) highlight a fiercely competitive field with seven weeks remaining.

Semi-final favorites solidify standing
Vienna reclaimed the #1 seed via “Strength of Victory” tiebreakers after rebounding from a loss to Rhein Fire with a critical Week 6 win over Raiders Tirol (4–3). The Munich Ravens hold the #2 spot after a decisive victory against Stuttgart Surge (4–3), showcasing improved defensive discipline under second-year leadership. Both teams would earn first-round byes if the season ended today.

Wildcard round projections
Current standings slot #6 Stuttgart Surge against #3 Nordic Storm, whose 5–0 record is tempered by a weaker strength of schedule. The #4 Paris Musketeers (4–2) would host #5 Rhein Fire (4–2) in a potential rematch of last year’s semifinal thriller, with Rhein eyeing an unprecedented three-peat.

On the bubble
Four teams remain within striking distance:

  • Prague Lions (4–2): Balanced offense keeps them in the hunt.
  • Madrid Bravos (4–2): Lead the South despite inconsistent form.
  • Raiders Tirol (4–3): Sliding after back-to-back losses.
  • Wroclaw Panthers (3–3): Ground-heavy approach faces uphill battle.

Midseason verdict
Nine teams remain mathematically alive, with tiebreakers likely deciding final berths. The Vienna Vikings’ aerial attack and Munich Ravens’ defensive upgrades make them frontrunners, while the Nordic Storm’s perfect record faces skepticism due to schedule softness. Rhein Fire’s championship pedigree looms large as the second half begins.

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