The Alicante players Alicia Galiana, Victoria Sánchez, Alexandra Wiksten, and Ana Tolu Leal led their team to a European flag football runner-up finish after a weekend of intense action in Ireland, held from August 18 to 20. The event showcased American football played on a European stage with a unique flag format that emphasizes speed, skill, and teamwork.
Heading into the championship, Spain faced a tense moment of uncertainty. Sparse support from local institutions and limited sponsorship forced the players to cover a significant portion of the costs themselves, often relying on the generosity of family and friends. Despite the financial strain, the squad pressed on with the shared dream of competing on Irish soil, a dream that ultimately materialized in a dramatic and memorable performance.
Spain opened the group stage with a tough matchup against Austria, a game they lost 35-19. That match stood out as the only stumble in the early phase as the team settled into their rhythm. The squad then rebounded with decisive wins against Switzerland, Finland, and Ireland, posting scores of 12-40, 47-7, and 46-6 respectively, before defeating Germany 33-24 to secure a place in the quarterfinals.
In the semifinal, Spain faced Italy in a tightly contested affair that was decided in the closing moments, with Spain prevailing 22-18. That victory propelled them toward the grand stage of the final, where a rematch with Germany awaited. The Spaniards controlled much of the game, ending the first half with a commanding 27-0 lead. Germany mounted a late push in the second half, but Spain held firm and closed out a 32-20 win to reach the final and confirm their status as one of Europe’s top flag football teams.
The journey did not end there as the team prepared to face Great Britain in the championship showdown. This final proved to be a gripping contest, with neither side able to seize a clear upper hand for much of the game. Great Britain emerged victorious with a 26-19 score as the clock ran down to the final moments, leaving Spain in second place but with a clear message about potential and resilience for the future.
The result underscored the emergence of Spanish women’s flag football on the European stage. Even in defeat, the team demonstrated growth, skill, and the capacity to compete with the best. With continued support, the players in Alicante are set to push for more podium finishes in upcoming championships, reinforcing flag football as a growing sport across the region.
In reflecting on the campaign, coaches, fans, and players highlighted the importance of funding, training infrastructure, and community backing to sustain long-term success. The experience in Ireland served as a catalyst for the sport in Spain, inspiring younger players and elevating national interest in flag football across both genders.
Attributions and notes: This summary reflects the reported events from the Irish European flag football weekend, based on official championship results and match reports. Citations: European Flag Football Association archive; Team Spain press notes; Match photography credits as listed in event galleries.