Nigeria’s men’s and women’s flag football teams have claimed top honours at the maiden edition of the International Federation of American Football (IFAF) African Flag Football Championship, held in Cairo, Egypt, from 20 to 21 June.
The men’s team edged out hosts Egypt in a tightly contested final, securing a 13-12 win at the Club One Stadium in Maadi. The match was played before an enthusiastic home crowd that included Egypt’s Minister of Youth and Sports, Dr Ashraf Sobhi.
In the women’s final, Nigeria delivered a dominant performance, defeating Morocco 26-12. Quarterback Anuoluwapo Bello played a pivotal role, scoring two crucial second-half touchdowns to seal the victory.
Both triumphs earned Nigeria automatic qualification for the 2026 IFAF Flag Football World Championships.
Tunisia claimed the men’s bronze medal after defeating Morocco, while Egypt secured third place in the women’s division, ensuring the host nation reached the podium in both categories.
The championship featured 11 teams from eight African nations and marked a significant milestone in the sport’s development across the continent. It is the first in a planned series of regional competitions leading to flag football’s historic debut at the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.
Organised in partnership with the NFL, the Africa Flag 2025 tournament forms part of a broader campaign to expand flag football’s footprint across Africa.
IFAF President Pierre Trochet praised the success of the event, stating, “Every player and official who set foot on the field in Cairo this week can claim a place in history. But what matters more is the future.
“This tournament has demonstrated the immense skill and enthusiasm for flag football in Africa. Alongside our NFL partners, we are determined to make this event a launchpad for sustained growth and opportunity.”
Following the conclusion of the championship, all participating nations received their first official international rankings from the IFAF.
