LIVESTREAM French Wild Card: Grizzlys Catalans @ La Courneuve Flash, May 24, 19:00 CET (7 pm, 1 pm ET)
The La Courneuve Flash (8-2) face the Grizzlys Catalans (6-3-1) in a D1 Elite Wild Card clash, as the historic French powerhouse aims to overcome playoff adversity against a surging Catalan squad at Stade Départemental de La Courneuve.
Flash’s defensive dominance
Despite an uncharacteristically inconsistent season, La Courneuve remains anchored by the league’s second-stingiest defense (8.2 points allowed per game). Early wins, including a statement victory over the Thonon-les-Bains Black Panthers, highlighted their potential, but offensive struggles cost them the Northern Conference top seed. Their defense, relentless in generating turnovers and stifling drives, must compensate for an erratic offense to advance.
Grizzlys’ late-season surge
The Grizzlys Catalans enter riding momentum, closing the regular season with critical wins over the Toulouse Ours and Cannes Iron Masks. QB Alexander Fromberg pilots a dynamic offense bolstered by playmakers Idriss Ramky, Sean Boswell, and Calum Davidson. However, their penchant for surrendering explosive plays—a recurring flaw in 2025—could prove costly against La Courneuve’s opportunistic unit.
Watch live. Grizzlys Catalans @ La Courneuve Flash, May 24, 19:00 CET (7 pm, 1 pm ET)
Key matchup: Flash defense vs. Grizzlys tempo
La Courneuve’s ability to disrupt Fromberg’s rhythm and limit big plays will dictate this game. The Grizzlys, averaging 28.1 points during their five-game win streak heading into the post season, must balance their up-tempo attack with disciplined execution to avoid turnovers.
Playoff stakes
A La Courneuve victory would reaffirm their legacy, while the Grizzlys seek to cement their rise as title contenders. The Flash’s home-field advantage and defensive pedigree clash with Catalans’ offensive firepower in a duel of contrasting identities.
Final preview
Expect a trench war defined by La Courneuve’s defensive grit and the Grizzlys’ offensive creativity. The team that imposes its style—whether through stifling stops or sustained drives—will seize the semifinal berth.
Watch live. Grizzlys Catalans @ La Courneuve Flash, May 24, 19:00 CET (7 pm, 1 pm ET)
Source: The Playoffs FR
