Canada 2 falls to Austria in their opening game of the 2024 U20 IFAF World Championships
Photo Creds: Moush John
Edmonton, Alberta – June 22, 2024 – Austria made a strong statement in their opening game of the 2024 IFAF U20 World Junior Championships, securing a decisive 41-13 victory over Team Canada 2 at Commonwealth Stadium in Edmonton.
MVP wide receiver Nils Keimel lived up to his billing as a player to watch, catching four passes from quarterback Michael Szabo for 147 yards and two touchdowns. Running back Kevin Stanisi also had an outstanding performance, scoring three rushing touchdowns.
“The whole team feels amazing,” said Keimel. “I think the strength of this team is the defense, and then we are able to adapt to the situations they put us in.”
Austria jumped to an early lead, holding a 20-7 advantage at halftime. They maintained their momentum throughout the game, excelling in all three phases—offense, defense, and special teams. Key plays included forced fumbles, interceptions, and a successful fake punt that halted a brief Canadian comeback in the second half.
“It feels so good,” said Austria head coach Roman Floredo told Michael Preston of IFAF. “It’s the first win for an Austrian team against a team from North America. I’m so proud of my team; they did a great job. I told them to leave everything on the field because they had nothing to lose. Our plan was to not be afraid and to play our game.
“Now we are moving on, we will prepare and be ready. We’re probably the underdog. We will play our game, as we did today, and go out on the field with a broad chest.”
With this win, Austria moves on to the semifinals, where they will face the defending IFAF U20 World Champions, Team Canada 1. The match is set for Wednesday, June 25th at 5 PM local time at Commonwealth Stadium. Team Canada 2 will face Brazil at 11 AM at Clarke Stadium.
(H/T: Michael Preston, AFI)
For more information, please contact:
Jim Mullin
President, Football Canada
[email protected]
