Munich Cowboys edge Wilddogs in gritty GFL South showdown

AFI | American Football | 06/23/2025

Photo: Tara Gienger

The Munich Cowboys (3-2) outlasted the Pforzheim Wilddogs (4-2) 29-26 in a tense German Football League (GFL) clash at Dante Stadium, extending their win streak to three games and climbing to second in the South Division. A resilient defensive effort and clutch offensive execution sealed the victory for Munich, despite Pforzheim’s late rally.

Defense sets the tone
The Cowboys’ defense neutralized Pforzheim’s dual-threat quarterback Dre Harris (23/34 passes, 1 TD; 17-yard rushing TD), limiting big plays early. A forced fumble by Theo Michel in the first quarter and a critical interception by Steven Kundt in the third quarter stalled the Wilddogs’ momentum. “Keeping Harris in check was our priority,” said head coach Christos Lambropoulos. “Our backups stepped up tremendously.”

Whitehead-Heiss connection fuels offense
Quarterback Zach Whitehead (22/30 passes, 391 yards) spearheaded Munich’s attack, linking with receivers Nicco Heiss (2 TDs, including a 45-yard dagger) and Gabe Boccella (2 TDs). A fourth-quarter drive, aided by Pforzheim’s defensive offside penalty, culminated in Heiss’ game-sealing score. Kicker Max Mittasch’s 3 PATs and Whitehead’s 2-point conversion run proved decisive.

Wilddogs’ late surge falls short
Pforzheim, despite losing receiver Luca Hirschberger (30-yard TD) to a leg injury, clawed back with Harris’ 2-yard TD pass to Andreas Lehmann and Michel’s 2-yard rushing score. A failed onside kick with 1:12 remaining, however, handed Munich possession to kneel out the clock.

Aftermath and outlook
The Cowboys, now 3-2, face Ravensburg next week before a rematch in Pforzheim on July 5. The Wilddogs, still atop the South at 4-2, travel to face Düsseldorf Panthers in an interconference test. “Small mistakes cost us,” admitted Pforzheim coach Michael Lang. “We’ll clean it up.”

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