LIVESTREAM IFAF Euros Semifinal: Austria vs Germany, Oct. 25, 19:00 CET (7 pm, 1 pm ET)

AFI | 2024/25 IFAF Men's European Championships | 10/25/2025

Graphic: Dante Bustos

This weekend, the second 2024-25 IFAF Men’s European Championship semifinal brings a highly anticipated showdown between Germany and Austria at Krefeld’s Grotenburg Stadion. Both teams have rich histories in European football, and this matchup promises to be a thrilling contest as they vie for a spot in the final. Germany is looking to make a statement after years away from the international scene, while Austria aims to defend its title and erase the bitter memory of their overtime loss to Germany in 2014.

A historic rivalry
The rivalry between Germany and Austria has been simmering for years, with both teams meeting regularly at the club level in the European League of Football (ELF). However, this will be their first encounter as national teams since that fateful championship game. The stakes are high, and both sides are eager to prove their dominance on the continental stage. For Germany, this semifinal marks a return to the top tier of European competition, while Austria seeks to reaffirm its status as a powerhouse in the sport.

Watch live. Austria vs Germany, Oct. 25, 19:00 CET (7 pm, 1 pm ET)

Austria’s meticulous preparation
Austria has approached this semifinal with a long and meticulous buildup. Head coach Max Sommer has crafted a roster filled with talent from the Vienna Vikings and Tirol Raiders, most of whom have experience in the ELF. Wide receiver Philip Haun captured the mood in the Austrian camp, expressing excitement about the opportunity to showcase top-level football again. The team trimmed its roster from 65 to 45 after an intense training camp, focusing on tactical work and recovery. “We want to peak on Saturday,” Haun stated, emphasizing the importance of experience and chemistry in their quest for victory.

Germany’s return to glory
On the German side, optimism runs high as the national program makes its comeback. For many players, this is their first chance to don the eagle again, and they are eager to represent their country. Wide receiver Justin Schlesinger from the Rhein Fire spoke about the significance of this moment, highlighting the honor of wearing the national colors after years without a team. The German squad has been working hard to build chemistry and install their playbook, and they believe they are well-prepared for the challenge ahead.

A clash of styles
As the two teams prepare to face off, the tone from both camps is respectful yet charged. Austria believes its cohesion and tournament experience will be the deciding factors, while Germany leans on its depth and the emotional power of its comeback story. The setting in Krefeld should favor the host nation, but Austria’s big-game mentality cannot be underestimated.

With both teams bringing deep rosters filled with ELF stars, fans can expect a fierce contest that showcases the best of European football. The winner will not only secure a place in the final but also gain momentum heading into the championship match just two days later.

As the anticipation builds, this semifinal promises to be a thrilling chapter in the storied rivalry between Germany and Austria. Expect fireworks as these two footballing nations battle for supremacy in Krefeld, with the hopes of their fans riding on every play.