Canada’s flag football teams made a strong start at the International Federation of American Football (IFAF) world championship in Düsseldorf, Germany. The Canadian women’s team secured victories in their matches against Panama and Brazil. Quarterback Sara Parker shone with four touchdowns, three caught by wide receiver Caroline Moquin-Joubert and one by Laura Molimard, leading the team to a 27-14 win against Panama and a 36-6 win against Brazil.

Marianne Quirion and Frédérique Morneau also made significant contributions with two touchdown catches each in the game against Brazil, while Molimard added another. On the other hand, the Canadian men’s team started their campaign with a strong 26-6 win over Austria, with quarterback Michael O’Connor completing four touchdowns.

Aside from aiming for the world title, the teams are vying for spots in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games, where flag football will debut as an Olympic sport. The top two finishers at the world championships will secure these coveted Olympic berths.

Both Canadian teams will conclude the group stage with matches against Japan on Friday. The men will play at 2 a.m. ET, followed by the women at 4:30 a.m. ET. Fans can catch all the action live on CBCSports.ca and CBC Gem. While the Canadian men were initially set to face Nigeria, they will now receive a walkover win as Nigeria withdrew from the tournament due to visa complications.