Vikings start the ELF season strong: win against Prague without Maierhofer!

Vikings start the ELF season strong: win against Prague without Maierhofer!

On May 18, 2025, the Vienna Vikings will start the new season of the European League of Football (ELF) with an impressive victory. The team, led by quarterback Ben Holmes, defeated the Prague Lions 28-6. Despite the team's strong performance, newly signed kicker Stefan Maierhofer was not in the squad because he still has to get used to the game of football. Loud Kicker He could still be in action soon if he reaches the necessary form.

This season is the Vikings' fourth in the ELF, and expectations are high. Coach Chris Calaycay has announced that he will win the conference and bring the championship to Vienna. In the three seasons so far, the Vikings have achieved an impressive record of 37 wins and only four losses. In 2022 they became champions, while in 2023 they reached the semi-finals and were already in the final in 2021. oe24 reports that their next challenges are against the Fehervar Enthroners on the Hohe Warte.

The Raiders Tirol and their return start

At the same time, the Raiders Tirol started their season opener with a defeat against the Munich Ravens, who lost to them 7:20. Particular attention was paid to new quarterback Conor Miller, who is described as a “real leader.” However, the Raiders had difficulties on offense, although Richard Weber scored an equalizer to make it 6:6. Their next game will be at the Tivoli Stadium against Helvetic Mercenaries.

The Raiders are also aiming for the playoffs and have achieved an even record of 8-4 in the last three ELF seasons. However, they only made it to the play-offs in 2022. They receive support from Italian players who do not count as import players after the Milano Seamen left. Head coach Jim Hermann is optimistic about the preparation of his players, while the Vikings will have two direct duels against the Raiders by June, which they have won in all previous encounters in the ELF.

Outlook for the season

The ELF season promises to be exciting, with the Vikings and Raiders both aiming high. They are expected to stay at the top of the table this season, as they have in previous years. The ELF 2025 final is scheduled for September 7th in Stuttgart, where the best teams will meet and fight for the championship.

The performance of the Vikings and Raiders will be crucial to their chances of making the play-offs, and the coming games could determine whether they qualify for the grand final.