Post game reactions to Austria’s Gold Medal win in IFAF Men’s European Championship
In a stunning display of teamwork and skill, Austria triumphed over Finland with a decisive 27-0 victory to secure the gold medal in the IFAF Men’s European Championship game. The game showcased Austria’s dominance on both sides of the ball, with quarterback Alexander Reischl leading the charge and the defense stifling Finland’s efforts.
Following the game, players and coaches reflected on their journey, the challenges faced, and the pride of representing their country on such a significant stage.
Postgame Interview — Sandro Platzgummer (Austria RB)
“It’s a huge honor, of course—but as I’ve said before, this is about the team. Football is the ultimate team sport. Finland came in determined to stop the run, and they really sold out against it. We still managed to move the ball on the ground, but at the end of the day you just take what the defense gives you—and that’s exactly what we did. We had, I think, four different receivers catching touchdowns, three different running backs making key plays. The defense did an amazing job. It was just a cool game. Finland played great football, but today we were better.”
On returning from injury and his mindset:
“I’m feeling pretty fit again, which is good—but to be honest, this was probably my last game for the national team. I’m finishing my medical studies and have a lot coming up in life. This was the perfect ending—winning against Germany and now finishing as European Champion. It’s tough to step away, because we have such a great team chemistry. If somebody’s down, the next guy picks him up. That’s something really special about Austrian football, and especially this national team. It’s an experience for life.”
On closing his international career:
“I actually thought about my whole football journey yesterday—so many tough times, injuries, hard moments, whether in the U.S. or Frankfurt. I’ve been around the world thanks to this sport, and finishing it all as a European Champion… that’s just beautiful.”
Postgame Interview — Florian Sudi (Austria DL)
“I think we really earned this. After beating Germany in the semifinal and then facing a very tough Finnish team tonight, I can honestly say we deserved it. The guys fought so hard, and I’m just incredibly happy—this feeling, winning back-to-back European titles, is unbelievable.”
On Austria’s defensive line and team mentality:
“Of course it’s always about the team. Always. We play as one unit, and that’s how we find success. Nobody here plays for themselves; there’s no ego between us. We work together, we lift each other up—and that’s how you win championships. You see where that got us: right to the very top.”
On Finland’s offense and his personal pride:
“They tried everything to run through the middle, but we stood our ground. Maybe once they broke through, but otherwise we held the line. I just kept telling the guys after every play, even after a seven-yard run—‘Come on, next one!’ That’s what keeps our defense sharp and connected.”
Postgame Interview — Mikko Koikkalainen (Head Coach, Finland)
“We gave absolutely everything out there. The guys fought hard all the way to the end, and I’m proud of every one of them. We came here believing that if we executed our plan and played disciplined football, we’d have a chance — and we did everything we could to make that happen. But Austria was simply the better team today.”
On effort and mindset:
“This was a tough game, especially coming just days after the semifinal and in these conditions. Still, our players kept competing. The heart and character they showed make me incredibly proud to coach them. Sometimes in football, you don’t get the result you want — but you always get what you deserve, and today we earned silver. That means something.”
Reporter’s note: “Very honest words from the Finnish head coach — acknowledging Austria’s current dominance but expressing deep pride in his team’s fight and resilience.”
Postgame Interview — Max Sommer (Head Coach, Austria)
“Thank you. I’d agree with that. It’s been an incredible ten days for us. This whole journey started five years ago, and now we’re 10–0 — ten games, ten wins, two European Championships, and two victories over Germany. That only happens when the culture is right. From the start, we’ve built everything around that culture — around having the right people, the right mindset, and players who bring heart and passion to the program. When that happens, success follows.”
On the game itself:
“Finland tried everything to shut down our running game — they committed everything they had to stopping the run. That opened up one-on-one matchups, and I’ll take our receivers against any defensive backs in Europe. You saw how that played out. Once we adjusted, our passing game really took control.”
On the development of the team:
“I’m so proud of this group. We’ve built something special. The players trust each other, and the staff has created an environment where everyone contributes. These guys don’t just play together — they care about each other. That’s what championship teams are made of.”
On Alexander Reischl’s MVP performance:
“Absolutely deserved. Some people doubted him before the tournament — said he was too small or inexperienced. But we knew we needed a quarterback who plays within the system, controls the game, and avoids mistakes. Alex has earned everything through hard work and patience. It’s one of those great football stories — first-time starter, European champion, MVP of the tournament. That’s something you only get in Austrian football.”
