Wroclaw Panthers rout Cologne Centurions in historic ELF road victory
The Wroclaw Panthers (2-2) delivered a commanding 57–3 road victory over the Cologne Centurions (0-4) in European League of Football action at Cologne’s Südstadion, setting a franchise scoring record while dominating all three phases of the game.
Dominant performance sets tone
From the opening drive, the Panthers established control, scoring touchdowns on their first two possessions. Quarterback DJ Irons completed 19 of 26 passes for 205 yards and four touchdowns, spreading the ball to seven receivers. Running back Dawid Brzozowski gashed Cologne’s defense for 146 rushing yards and two scores on 15 carries, setting the tone for a 206-yard team rushing effort.
Photo: @lukasz.skwiot
Brzozowski, Stewart Jr. spearhead offense
Brzozowski’s relentless ground attack wore down the Centurions, while receiver Darrell Stewart Jr. hauled in seven catches for 68 yards and two touchdowns. Przemysław Banat and Kacper Jaszewski added receiving scores, showcasing the Panthers’ aerial versatility. “We gained an edge on the line and in the running game—something we struggled with in our previous two games,” Banat noted, highlighting the offense’s improved balance.
Defense, special teams seal rout
The Panthers’ defense held Cologne to 140 total yards and 3-of-13 third-down conversions. Special teams contributed explosively, with Devan Burrell’s 103-yard kickoff return touchdown in the third quarter breaking the game open. Cologne’s lone score came via a fourth-quarter field goal, but the Centurions never threatened the end zone.
Road test awaits in Copenhagen
Wroclaw’s penalty-free first half and efficient rotations in the second half kept key starters fresh for next week’s rematch against the Nordic Storm in Copenhagen. “Our focus is already on the rematch,” Brzozowski emphasized, acknowledging the challenge ahead. The Panthers’ 411 total yards and 57 points marked their most complete performance of 2025.
Key Stats:
- Total Yards: Panthers 411, Centurions 140
- Turnovers: 0 (Panthers), 1 (Centurions)
- Brzozowski: 146 rushing yards, 2 TDs
- Stewart Jr.: 7 receptions, 68 yards, 2 TDs
The Panthers’ emphatic win injects momentum into their playoff push, while Cologne’s winless season deepens amid defensive breakdowns and offensive stagnation. Wroclaw’s multifaceted attack and disciplined execution position them as a rising threat in the ELF North.