France: Cannes Iron Mask outlast Grizzlys Catalans in key conference clash

The Cannes Iron Mask (4–0) defeated the Grizzlys Catalans (3–1) 32–20 in a highly anticipated battle of unbeatens that lived up to its billing as a D1 Elite South Conference showdown.

Grizzlys strike early
Grizzlys Catalans came out firing, with running back Victor Boyer breaking through for an early touchdown. A blocked extra point was returned by Cannes for two points, but the visitors extended their lead when quarterback Badis Grami found receiver Nino De Wavrechin to take a 12–2 advantage. The Iron Mask offense struggled early but connected before halftime via an American duo—Conor Miller to D’Vontae Key—cutting the deficit to 12-9 at the break.

Cannes flips the script
The second half belonged entirely to the Iron Mask. Defensive back Nicolas Marin intercepted Grami early in the third quarter, swinging momentum and giving Cannes its first lead. The home team never looked back, combining offensive execution with stifling defense to control the clock and limit Catalans’ opportunities. A late Grizzlys score provided consolation, but the outcome was never in doubt down the stretch.

Iron Mask solidify contender status
With the win, Cannes remains unbeaten and establishes itself as the team to beat in the South Conference. The Grizzlys showed flashes but will need to clean up turnovers and finish drives to challenge Cannes in a potential playoff rematch. Both teams displayed why they’re among the D1 Elite’s best, but it was the Iron Mask who proved more complete when it mattered.