The Hildesheim Invaders (0-1) aim to rebound against the Straubing Spiders (1-0) at Helios Field on Thursday, May 16, in the GFL’s first interconference matchup of 2025. Hildesheim seeks redemption after a 47-19 Week 1 loss tothe Dresden Monarchs, while Straubing looks to build on their historic 31-24 season-opening win over the Ravensburg Razorbacks.
Hildesheim’s redemption bid
The Invaders unraveled in Week 1, collapsing after a competitive first half due to special teams miscues and defensive breakdowns. A home crowd and adjusted schemes could reignite their playoff-caliber form from 2024. Quarterback stability and red-zone execution will be critical against a Spiders defense missing its leader.
Straubing’s injury challenge
The Spiders celebrated their first-ever GFL home win but lost star Finnish linebacker Onni Soininen to a severe injury. His absence leaves a void in a defense that held Ravensburg to 24 points. Newcomers must step up to contain Hildesheim’s balanced attack, which faltered late against Dresden but remains potent.
Watch live PPV. Straubing Spiders @ Hildesheim Invaders, May 17, 16:00 CET (4 pm, 10 am ET)
Interconference hurdle
As the South’s designated team for four interconference games (due to division imbalance), Straubing faces an uphill battle. Historically, South teams in this role have struggled—Kirchdorf Wildcats lost all four in 2023—but 2022’s Braunschweig Lions swept theirs. The Spiders’ playoff hopes hinge on navigating this gauntlet.
Key matchup: trenches
Hildesheim’s offensive line, which allowed three sacks against Dresden, must handle Straubing’s aggressive front. The Spiders, meanwhile, need their reshuffled linebacker corps to limit big plays.
Thursday’s clash tests both teams’ adaptability. For Hildesheim, it’s a chance to reset; for Straubing, proof their Week 1 triumph wasn’t a fluke. The outcome could define their trajectories in a grueling GFL campaign.