French Wild Card Playoff: La Courneuve Flash overpower Grizzlys Catalans to secure semifinal berth
The La Courneuve Flash advanced to the French D1 Elite semifinals with a commanding 44-19 wild-card victory over the Grizzlys Catalans, neutralizing the visitors’ high-powered offense through relentless defense and explosive special teams play at their home ground.
Early momentum sets dominant tone
The Flash struck first, with running back Jason Bofunda capping an opening drive touchdown (7-0) and the defense blocking a fourth-down attempt deep in Grizzlys territory. A subsequent field goal extended the lead to 10-0 before Catalans’ receiver Idriss Ramky answered with a scoring catch (10-6). However, returner Noa Badibanga electrified the crowd with a kickoff return TD (17-6), followed by François Brémond’s touchdown to stretch the margin to 23-6. A late Grizzlys score before halftime (23-13) offered fleeting hope.
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Defensive pressure stifles Catalans comeback bid
La Courneuve’s defense clamped down in the third quarter, forcing punts and an interception off quarterback Alexander Fromberg. Running back Judson Saint-Louis delivered the dagger with a 50-yard touchdown sprint (30-13), while the secondary blanketed Grizzlys’ receivers, limiting big plays. A late Catalans TD pass to Julien Vast (30-19) proved cosmetic against the Flash’s control of the clock and trenches.
Late surge cements semifinal spot
The Flash sealed the win with authority, as Anyame Gemise-Fareau and Badibanga (second TD) punctuated the rout with fourth-quarter scores. Special teams excellence, including flawless extra-point execution, complemented a ground game that amassed four rushing touchdowns.
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Road ahead: Iron Mask await
La Courneuve advances to face the Cannes Iron Mask in three weeks, aiming to replicate their 2023 semifinal triumph. The Grizzlys, meanwhile, exit after a season defined by offensive firepower that faltered under postseason pressure.
Key Performances:
- La Courneuve: Noa Badibanga (kick return TD, receiving TD), Judson Saint-Louis (50-yard TD).
- Grizzlys: Idriss Ramky (TD catch), Julien Vast (late TD).
- Defensive Standouts: Flash’s front seven (4th-down stop, interception).
Source: The Playoffs/FR
Photos: @annieshnaider.photo
