The Paris Musketeers (0-1) host the Stuttgart Surge (1-0) at Stade Robert-Bobin on Sunday as both teams renew a rivalry defined by the Surge’s recent dominance and Paris’ quest for redemption.
Historical backdrop and renewed rivalry
Since joining the ELF in 2023, the Musketeers have yet to defeat the Surge, who claimed a 29-20 victory in their inaugural meeting in 2023 and a 14-6 road win later that season. The two teams did not face each other in 2024. Under head coach Jordan Neuman, Stuttgart transformed from strugglers to contenders, while Paris aims to leverage new leadership under Jack Del Rio to reverse the narrative.
Week 1 takeaways
Stuttgart opened 2025 with a commanding 33-20 win over the Frankfurt Galaxy, showcasing disciplined defense and offensive efficiency. Paris, despite outgaining the Rhein Fire in passing (144-124 yards) and rushing (168-90 yards), fell 17-15 due to critical mistakes, including six sacks and a late interception by quarterback Jaylon Henderson. Kicker Mathys Dupont (3/3 FG) emerged as a bright spot, while linebacker Souleymane Karamoko (9 tackles) anchored the defense.
Key players and connections
Paris’ offense leans on Henderson (20/31, 180 yards, 1 TD) and a dual-threat backfield of Chris Vuombo and Nicolas Khandar, both former Surge players. Receiver Hugo Tekedam (6 catches, 71 yards, 1 TD) and defensive lineman Aslan Zetterberg (ex-Surge) add firepower. Stuttgart counters with quarterback Reilly Hennessey, whose Week 1 chemistry with receiver Louis Geyer (3 TDs in the 2023 meetings vs Paris) and rusher Asnnell Robo (1 TD vs. Paris in 2023) poses a multifaceted threat.
Matchup focus: Efficiency vs. Execution
Paris must minimize sacks and red-zone miscues to exploit their statistical advantages. Stuttgart’s defense, led by lineman Alexander Kreß aims to replicate its disruptive Week 1 form. The Surge’s balanced attack tests Karamoko’s hybrid role and Zetterberg’s familiarity with his former team.
Outlook: Urgency in Paris
A raucous crowd in Bondoufle will witness a pivotal early-season clash. Paris seeks to validate its rebuilt roster under Del Rio, while Stuttgart eyes a 2-0 start to cement its playoff ambitions. With former teammates on opposite sidelines and pride at stake, expect a physical, chess-match duel decided by turnovers and tactical discipline.