Team Canada claims Gridiron Nations Championship with victory over Germany

The Canadian Senior Men’s National Team defeated Germany 25-10 on Sunday, capturing the inaugural Gridiron Nations Championship.

Canada trailed 7-6 at halftime in Bochum, before former Hec Crighton Trophy winner Chris Merchant put the team in front with a 22-yard touchdown scamper late in the third quarter. A forced fumble on the ensuing kickoff led to a receiving touchdown from Antonio Valvano, while former CFL running back Jamel Lyles capped the action in the fourth quarter with a spectacular rushing score in which he reversed field and hurdled a defender.

The victory marked the final game in the Gridiron Nations Championship, clinching Canada the trophy thanks to their narrow victory over Italy last week. The team was awarded a historic English presentation cup dating from 1888 that was christened the Mullin-Simon Fraser Trophy in honour of its donors, IFAF Vice-President Jim Mullin and the Simon Fraser Football Alumni Association. Jamel Lyles was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player

Canada will only get a brief respite before beginning their quest for the 2026 Gridiron Nations Championship. The team will travel to take on Team Mexico at Estadio Wilfrido Massieu in Mexico City on December 13.