The Firenze Guelfi (11-0) extended their undefeated season with a 35-23 comeback victory over the Legnano Frogs in the Italian Football League semifinal at the Guelfi Sport Center, securing their fourth consecutive championship game berth.
Frogs’ early surge fades
The Frogs stormed out to a 14-0 lead behind quarterback Luke Zahradka’s 34-yard touchdown pass to Alessandro Pulsinelli and a subsequent rushing score. However, the Guelfi regrouped, with quarterback Andrea Fimiani orchestrating a methodical response.
Fimiani’s four-touchdown masterclass
Fimiani dominated, first connecting with receiver Frankie Stola for a touchdown before halftime. He added three rushing scores in the second half, showcasing vision and power to erase the deficit. His leadership steadied the Guelfi after a sloppy opening quarter.
Salum’s game-changing interception
Defensive back Eystin Salum shifted momentum in the third quarter, intercepting Zahradka and returning the pick 74 yards for a touchdown. The play ignited the home crowd and gave the Guelfi their first lead. Salum and linebacker Colin Schooler anchored a defense that stifled the Frogs’ late rally.
Frogs’ futile fightback
Legnano narrowed the gap with Pulsinelli’s second touchdown and a 29-yard Lorenzo Gioco field goal, but the Guelfi’s defense held firm. Christian Sottura’s clutch defensive contributions and Fimiani’s final scoring drive sealed the win.
Historic final pursuit
The Guelfi advance to their fourth straight Italian Bowl on June 28, aiming to claim their first title after falling to the Parma Panthers in 2023. Their 11-0 record — the IFL’s lone unbeaten mark — underscores their dominance. The Frogs’ season ends despite Zahradka’s early brilliance, unable to counter Fimiani’s poise and Salum’s defensive heroics.
Explicitly sourced stats:
- Fimiani: 1 passing TD (Stola), 3 rushing TDs
- Salum: 74-yard interception return TD
- Frogs’ scores: Pulsinelli (2 TDs), Zahradka (1 rush TD), Gioco (29-yard FG)