Nigeria’s national flag football teams etched their names in the sport’s history by sweeping the inaugural IFAF Africa Flag 2025 championships in Cairo, Egypt. The women’s team crushed Morocco 26-12, while the men pulled off a thrilling 13-12 escape against hosts Egypt in front of a roaring home crowd.

The victories crowned Nigeria as Africa’s first dual flag football champions and secured their slots in the 2026 IFAF Flag Football World Championships. The tournament, held June 20–21 at Club One Stadium, also marked a key step on the path to flag football’s Olympic debut at the 2028 Los Angeles Games.

Rising stars and international spotlight

Quarterback Anuoluwapo Bello threw two game-sealing touchdowns for the women, while Hayes Obinna-Uzoh led the men with poise in the pocket. Tunisia and Egypt completed the historic podium finishes, joining Nigeria and Morocco as top contenders in this fast-growing sport.

“This is a great achievement for us and I’m proud of every woman out here,” said Bello. “There is an opportunity to go to the World Championships and show everyone what we can do.” Obinna-Uzoh added, “We’ve made history.”

In all, 11 teams from eight African nations participated in what was the first of IFAF’s continental championships series for 2025. The competition featured loud crowds, high-stakes moments, and widespread exposure as the NFL and IFAF teamed up to grow the sport.

NFL legends Osi Umenyiora, Bobby Okereke and Tanoh Kpassagnon were present to witness the milestone and participate in youth flag games, talent ID sessions, and coaching clinics. “The first African Continental Championship was a tremendous success,” Umenyiora said. “Africa is officially on the flag football map.”