Group G at the 2024 IFAF Flag Football World Championships: Israel and Denmark Lead the Charge

Group G at the 2024 IFAF Flag Football World Championships promises to be a thrilling showcase of talent, with a free-scoring Israeli team, a four-time silver medalist in Denmark, and the rising Irish squad vying for a place in the knockout stages. This group is one to watch as these teams bring their best to the global stage.

Israel: The Offensive Powerhouse

Israel’s reputation as a scoring machine precedes them, and the only way to defeat them is to outscore them. That’s easier said than done, considering Israel’s habit of racking up points. This year, part of their team won the Big Bowl, further cementing their status as one of the most dangerous offences in the tournament. Daniel Eastman and Daniel Mikhailov are two of the best players in Europe, and they’ll be leading Israel’s charge in Finland.

At the 2021 World Championships, Israel posted a 3-2 record in the group stages on home soil, with their lowest-scoring game still yielding 41 points. They finished ninth overall after blasting 102 points in two placement games. Their recent bronze medal at the European Championships, where they crushed Denmark 42-8, shows they are a force to be reckoned with.

With a history of strong finishes, including a European silver in 2017 and multiple top-four placements, Israel is the favourite to top Group G.

Denmark: The Silver Medal Giants

Denmark has a storied history in international flag football, boasting more total medals than any other nation, although a World Championships gold still eludes them. Their four silver medals from 2006, 2008, 2010, and 2016, along with a bronze in 2018, highlight their consistent presence at the top.

In the 2021 World Championships, Denmark went 3-1 in the group stages but fell to Panama in the quarterfinals, finishing seventh overall. On the European stage, Denmark has been dominant, with six consecutive continental titles from 2009 to 2019. However, they finished fourth behind Israel in 2023.

Denmark will be led by new quarterback Alexander Kronborg Bjerre, stepping into the big shoes left by Ermler, one of the most successful QBs in European flag football history. Jonas Bo Hansen, a veteran presence, will be a key target in the end zone, while Oscar Broge-Starck will be essential for securing first downs. Denmark’s defence, anchored by Niklas Dyrby Johansen, remains one of the toughest in the game.

Ireland: The Underdog

Ireland, ranked 26th in the world, faces an uphill battle in Group G. While they were unable to secure a group win at the 2023 IFAF European Championships on home soil, they finished strong with victories over Slovakia and Poland in the placement games. Ray Burke, the team captain, will lead the Irish squad as they aim to improve on their previous performances and challenge the giants of Group G. 

India: Visa Issues Force Withdrawal

Unfortunately, India will not be participating in the World Championships due to visa issues, reducing Group G to three teams. This situation underscores the challenges that international teams sometimes face beyond the field.

Predictions for Group G

• 1st Place: Israel (3-0 W-L) - Israel’s potent offence and recent successes make them the clear favourite to top the group.
• 2nd Place: Denmark (2-1 W-L) - Denmark’s experience and solid defence should secure them second place in Group G.
• 3rd Place: Ireland (1-2 W-L) - Despite their efforts, Ireland is likely to finish third in this highly competitive group.

Group G at the 2024 IFAF Flag Football World Championships is set to deliver high-octane action and intense competition. With Israel’s unstoppable offence, Denmark’s storied history, and Ireland’s determination, this group will be one of the most exciting to follow as the tournament unfolds.