Stuttgart Surge stun Munich Ravens to claim championship berth in hometown showdown
The Stuttgart Surge (10-2) upended the top-seeded Munich Ravens (11-1) 27-13 in a physical European League of Football semifinal, earning their first-ever championship game appearance in front of a home crowd next Sunday.
Surge defense dominates pivotal moments
Stuttgart’s defensive unit proved decisive, holding Munich’s aerial attack to 130 passing yards and forcing a critical interception. Cornerback Ben Wenzler anchored the effort with three pass breakups, four tackles, and a momentum-shifting pick. The Surge stifled Munich on third downs (4/11 conversions) and tallied four sacks, consistently disrupting quarterback Russell Tabor’s rhythm.
Hennessey’s dual-threat mastery
Quarterback Reilley Hennessey outdueled Tabor with a balanced performance, completing 21-of-29 passes for 240 yards and a touchdown while adding two rushing scores. His precision (72% completion rate) and poise under pressure contrasted with Munich’s struggles through the air. Tabor countered with 108 rushing yards and two touchdowns but failed to connect for a passing score, hampered by Stuttgart’s secondary. Receiver Markell Harley Jr. emerged as Hennessey’s top weapon, hauling in nine catches for 144 yards and a touchdown.
Munich’s historic season ends in heartbreak
Despite the loss, the Ravens set a franchise record with 11 regular-season wins behind stars like Tabor, running back Justin Rodney, and receiver Malik Stanley. Their ground game kept hope alive early, but Stuttgart’s defensive adjustments after halftime limited Munich to just six second-half points. The Ravens’ core, including defensive back Cole Coleman, leaves a foundation for future contention.
Championship game set for Stuttgart showdown
The Surge will host the Vienna Vikings in the ELF title game, marking the first time a team competes for the championship in its home city. Stuttgart’s balanced attack and defensive tenacity will face a stern test against the Vikings, who routed the Nordic Storm 33-14 in their semifinal. With Hennessey’s versatility and a raucous home crowd, the Surge aim to cap their breakthrough season with a historic title.
Key stats: Stuttgart outgained Munich 351-230 in total yards, converting 30:23 time of possession into sustained drives. The Surge’s 246 passing yards and 105 rushing yards highlighted offensive balance, while their three penalties showcased disciplined execution under pressure.
