The Vienna Vikings showcased their talent and determination throughout the 2025 season, ultimately reaching the European League of Football Championship Game. Despite their impressive journey, they fell short against the Stuttgart Surge, losing 24-17 and missing the chance to claim their second title.
Dominance on the field
Finishing the season with an 11-1 record, the Vikings established themselves as a formidable force in the league, earning the top seed. Their success was underscored by the recognition of eight players as All-Stars, with six making the First All-Star Team. Quarterback Ben Holmes was a standout performer, throwing for 2,787 yards and 40 touchdowns, consistently delivering big plays. On the defensive side, edge rusher Lucky Ogbevoen made a significant impact upon his return from the Canadian Football League, recording 55 tackles and leading the team with 7.5 sacks. Receiver Reece Horn also had a solid season, catching 58 passes for 677 yards and 15 touchdowns, while running back Karri Pajarinen contributed with 518 rushing yards and 8 touchdowns. The Vikings averaged nearly 39 points per game, demonstrating their offensive prowess.
Challenges in critical moments
Despite their overall success, the Vikings encountered issues on special teams. The absence of kicker Dennis Tasic due to injury forced the team to attempt more two-point conversions, resulting in missed scoring opportunities. This challenge became particularly evident in the championship game, where the offensive line struggled against Stuttgart’s defense, allowing six sacks on Holmes in the first half. While the offensive line had been a reliable unit throughout the season, this performance highlighted the need for improvement in high-stakes situations.
Looking forward to 2026
As the Vikings prepare for the upcoming season in the European Football Alliance, they are focused on refining their game. With no major changes anticipated, the team aims to address the minor details that hindered their performance this year.