The Firenze Guelfi (10-0), Ancona Dolphins (9-1), Parma Panthers (7-3), and Legnano Frogs (8-2) will clash in Saturday’s Italian Football League (IFL) semifinals, vying for a spot in the Italian Bowl in Toledo, Ohio. The Firenze Guelfi host the Legnano Frogs at the Guelfi Sport Center, while the Ancona Dolphins face the Parma Panthers at Nelson Mandela Stadium, with both games shaping as contrasts between perfection and pedigree.
Saturday, June 14, 17:00 CET (PPV)
Legnano Frogs @ Firenze Guelfi: Undefeated titans meet Cinderella story
The Firenze Guelfi enter as Italy’s most dominant team, averaging 49.9 points per game behind quarterback Andrea Fimiani’s league-leading 1,308 rushing yards. Supported by imports Eystin Salum, Frankie Stola, and Colin Schooler, their offense has overwhelmed every opponent. Defensively, they’ve allowed just 18 points per game, stifling Group B rivals like the Torino Giaguari and Ferrara Aquile.
The Legnano Frogs, back in the IFL after a two-year hiatus, defy expectations with an 8-2 campaign. Blue Team quarterback Luke Zahradka revitalized the Lombard squad, guiding them past the Torino Jaguars 28-7 in the wild-card round. Their last semifinal appearance came in 2002, but their balanced offense and opportunistic defense—forcing 15 turnovers this season—pose a threat to Firenze’s immaculate record.
Saturday, June 14, 21:00 CET (PPV)
Parma Panthers @ Ancona Dolphins: Reigning champions face Marche juggernaut
The Ancona Dolphins ride a nine-game win streak fueled by quarterback Blake Eaton and Italy’s top-ranked defense, which allowed a league-low 14.2 points per game. Their two regular-season victories over the Parma Panthers, including a decisive Week 10 shutout, position them as favorites. However, the Parma Panthers, reigning champions and winners of three titles since 2020, thrive in high-stakes scenarios.
Coach Brian Michitti’s squad overcame a turbulent regular season, defeating the Varese Skorpions 41-29 in the wild-card round. Quarterback Reilly Hennessey and receiver Jordan Suell anchor an offense that averages 34 points in playoff games since 2023. Though outscored 52-20 by Ancona in two prior meetings, the Panthers’ championship experience and tactical adaptability make them dangerous underdogs.
Paths to glory
For the Firenze Guelfi, perfection hinges on neutralizing Zahradka’s dual-threat capabilities. The Legnano Frogs must disrupt Fimiani’s rhythm to spring an upset. In Ancona, the Dolphins aim to exorcise past playoff failures, while the Parma Panthers rely on Hennessey’s poise to extend their dynasty. With contrasting styles and legacies at play, Saturday’s semifinals promise to redefine Italian football’s hierarchy.