LIVESTREAM Italian Semifinal: Lazio Ducks @ Milano Seamen, July 3, 20:00 CET (8 pm, 2 pm ET)

The defending champion Milano Seamen (6-2) will host the Lazio Ducks (4-4) in this Italian Division 1 semi-final.

In the only game between these two teams this season, Milano downed the Ducks 35-21 after outscoring Lazio 28-0 in the second and third quarters.

The Seamen are determined to advance to the Italian Bowl for the fourth consecutive season, while Lazio is looking to make its first appearance since 2009 when they were called the Marines.

The Ducks are led by quarterback Luke Casey and receiver Matt Hazel. Hazel’s NFL experience and athleticism has been one of the main engines propelling the Ducks to their post season appearance. The former Miami Dolphin has been a terror on both offense and defense. Fans can expect Casey to also involve 6’5″ Italian receiver Alberto Rinaldi as the home-grown talents massive frame is a mismatch to take advantage of.

Lazio Ducks @ Milano Seamen, July 3, 20:00 CET (8 pm, 2 pm ET)

Defensive tackle Giacomo Insom will need to play well against a strong Milano offensive line. Defensive back Mark Simone aims to contain a Jordan Buoah and a strong core of Seamen skill players. Italian-American Mike Gentili should make an impact as a safety or running back. Gentili’s toughness and speed could create some big plays for the Ducks.

If the Seamen are to repeat as Italian champions, quarterback Luke Zahradka projects to be the main reason why. The veteran passer finished the regular season with 1,908 yards and a league leading 27 touchdowns. Zahradka’s offense features former CFL Global wide receiver Jordan Buoah and national team ball catcher Stefan de Tunisi. On the ground, running back Giacomo Querzola is expected to have a big game, as Milano has the size advantage in the trenches today.

Defensively, young linebacker Enzo Mensah will be trying to shut down the Lazio run game. defensive back Daniele Colombo and the rest of this Seamen secondary has the daunting task of slowing down Lazio’s potent passing attack. If defensive lineman Simone Perego can get pressure on Lazio’s quarterback, Milano should cruise to a victory.

Lazio has the talent to play with the Seamen, and if coach Dan Pippin can rally his troops, Rome’s American football team could pull off the upset. For Milano, they enter this week looking to dominate and return to the Italian Bowl with confidence.

Watch the game live here. Lazio Ducks @ Milano Seamen, July 3, 20:00 CET (8 pm, 2 pm ET)

Milano Seamen roster

Lazio Ducks roster

 

Alex is a former NCAA and semi-pro American football player who is now located in London, where he works in digital marketing. His goal in writing for AFI is to stay involved with the game that has given him so much. Alex enjoys covering leagues and