LIVESTREAM French Casque de Diamant: Thonon Black Panthers vs Cannes Iron Mask, June 28, 18:00 CET (6 pm, 12 noon ET)

| American Football | 06/28/2025

The Thonon Black Panthers and Cannes Iron Mask will battle for the French D1 Elite championship in the 29th Casque de Diamant at Chambéry Savoie Stadium on Saturday, capping a season where both teams dominated their respective conferences. The Black Panthers seek a third consecutive title, while Cannes aims to claim its first-ever championship in an unprecedented showdown between two regular-season conference leaders.

Thonon’s dominant road to the final
The Black Panthers enter the final with a near-flawless 2025 campaign, suffering only one loss (6–5 to La Courneuve Flash) in all competitions. After that early stumble, Larry Legault’s squad reeled off nine consecutive regular-season wins, including gritty victories over Asnières-sur-Seine Molosses, and cruised through the semifinals. Their defense has been the backbone of their success, allowing a league-low 7.9 points per game during the regular season and holding opponents to single-digit scores in eight of ten games.

Cannes’ historic breakthrough season
Under first-year head coach Arnaud Vidaller, the Iron Mask transformed from Southern Conference contenders to title finalists, securing their first conference crown with an 8–1–1 record. Key wins over Toulouse Bears and a semifinal upset of La Courneuve Flash showcased their resilience, with four victories decided by three points or fewer. Their 303-point offensive output (30.3 per game) highlights a potent attack that thrives under pressure.

Watch live. Thonon Black Panthers vs Cannes Iron Mask, June 28, 18:00 CET (6 pm, 12 noon ET)

Thonon’s championship pedigree
The Black Panthers’ experience in high-stakes games gives them a critical edge. Quarterback José Tabora commands a multifaceted offense featuring receivers Benjamin Lolmède, Pierre-Yves Dayres, and Liam Ward, alongside tight end Odell Turnbull. Defensive MVP candidate Adel Bafdile epitomizes their versatility, contributing as a receiver, kick returner, and kicker. Their suffocating defense (7.9 points allowed per game) and offensive depth make them favorites to hoist the Casque de Diamant for the third straight year.

Cannes’ offensive firepower
The Iron Mask rely on running back Yanis Polin, whose 1,022 rushing yards, 21 touchdowns, and 125 receiving yards anchor the league’s most explosive ground game. Quarterback Olivier Roy (30.3 points per game) distributes the ball efficiently, with receiver Laury Maspimby emerging as a deep threat. However, Polin’s health and Roy’s susceptibility to sacks (highlighted in their semifinal win) could test their consistency against Thonon’s relentless defense.

Defensive battle at Chambéry
The clash between Cannes’ high-powered offense and Thonon’s stalwart defense will decide the game. The Black Panthers must contain Polin’s explosive runs and pressure Roy into mistakes, while Cannes needs to limit turnovers and sustain drives to keep Tabora off the field. Thonon’s defensive line, led by Bafdile, faces its toughest challenge yet against a Cannes offensive unit that thrives in clutch moments.

Keys to victory for Thonon

  1. Pressure Olivier Roy: Force the Cannes quarterback into hurried throws and sacks to disrupt rhythm.
  2. Contain Yanis Polin: Stack the box to limit his rushing lanes and force Cannes into predictable passing situations.
  3. Leverage experience: Use their championship pedigree to remain composed in tight fourth-quarter scenarios.

Cannes’ path to an upset

  1. Establish Polin early: Feed the star running back to control possession and wear down Thonon’s defense.
  2. Protect Olivier Roy: Improve pass protection to avoid sacks and create time for deep throws to Maspimby.
  3. Force turnovers: Capitalize on defensive opportunities, as they did in their semifinal win over La Courneuve Flash.

Stakes and legacy
A win for Thonon would cement their dynasty as one of France’s greatest teams, while Cannes seeks to etch its name into history with a maiden title. The Black Panthers’ defensive dominance and offensive balance clash with Cannes’ late-game magic and Polin’s brilliance, setting the stage for a classic final.

Kickoff at Chambéry Savoie Stadium promises a tactical battle where discipline, execution, and big-play potential will crown the 2025 French champion.

Watch live. Thonon Black Panthers vs Cannes Iron Mask, June 28, 18:00 CET (6 pm, 12 noon ET)

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