The Munich Cowboys are headed to the German Football League semifinals for the first time in 24 years after a breathtaking 44-31 overtime victory over the Berlin Rebels in a quarterfinal classic at Dante Stadium.
A back-and-forth offensive battle
From the opening kickoff, the game was an intense, back-and-forth affair with multiple lead changes. The Rebels established their physical running game early behind running back Nazar Bombata, who gained 120 yards on the ground. The Cowboys countered with a potent and efficient aerial attack led by quarterback Zachary Whitehead, who completed 21 of 28 passes for 362 yards. His primary target, receiver Gabe Boccella, had a massive game with 11 catches for 181 yards. The teams traded scores throughout, with the Cowboys taking a 20-14 lead into halftime before the Rebels surged back to claim a 31-23 advantage in the second half.
Clutch finish to force overtime
Facing a deficit late in the fourth quarter, the Cowboys offense delivered under pressure. A crucial drive was capped by a 32-yard touchdown pass from Whitehead to Fabian Kempter. Needing a two-point conversion to tie the game, the Cowboys executed perfectly with Whitehead connecting with Boccella to knot the score at 31-31 and send the game to an unforgettable overtime.
Historic overtime explosion
The Cowboys took possession first in overtime and marched down the field, culminating in a one-yard touchdown run by Mustafa Othmann and an extra point from kicker Maximilian Mittasch for a 38-31 lead. On the ensuing Rebels possession, the Munich defense made the game-sealing play. Defensive tackle Elias Samtamaa forced a fumble from quarterback Connor Kaegi, scooped the ball, and returned it 79 yards for a touchdown. The two scores in a single overtime period marked a historic first in the GFL, triggering a massive celebration for the home team and their fans.
A semi-final berth secured
This dramatic, hard-fought victory sends the Munich Cowboys to the next round where they will face the Potsdam Royals on the road. The win, achieved through offensive resilience and a legendary defensive play, ends a 24-year semi-final drought and marks a monumental achievement for the franchise.