LIVESTREAM Italy PPV: Firenze Guelfi @ Albisola Pirates, April 6, 14:30 CET (2:30 pm, 8:30 am ET)

AFI | American Football | 04/06/2025

Graphic: Dante Bustos

Week 8 of the Italian Football League (IFL) promises fireworks as the Albisola Pirates (1-3) host the undefeated Firenze Guelfi (6-0) in a high-stakes “Missione Guelfi” showdown. Kickoff at Pirates Field is set for 2:30 PM, with President Giacchello’s squad eager to rebound from their recent 35-14 road loss to the Ferrara Aquile.

A spring-like atmosphere awaits, complete with roaring fans as the Pirates face what many deem a “mission impossible” against the league’s most formidable roster.

Guelfi’s Offensive Juggernaut Meets Pirates’ Defensive Resolve
The Guelfi (6-0), fresh off dominating performances, arrive as heavy favorites to lift this year’s Italian Bowl in Toledo, Ohio. Their offense, orchestrated by dual-threat QB Andrea Fimiani, has been unstoppable, boasting 10 rushing TDs and 23 passing TDs this season. Supported by playmakers like WR Stola (14 TDs) and RB Eystin Salum (6 TDs, 3 INTs), Fimiani’s versatility poses a nightmare for defenses. Defensively, Texas Tech import LB Jacob Schooler, the league’s tackle leader with 48 TKL, anchors a unit that thrives on suffocating opponents.

Pirates’ Offense: Can the ‘Air Force’ Soar?
The Pirates, however, are no strangers to adversity. QB Jordy Baidal’s “Air Force” – featuring WRs Andrea and Fillipo Fiammenghi, Matteo Fusetti, and TE Festuccia – must test Guelfi’s secondary to keep pace. Defensive standouts like LB Bruno, DL James Fleurissant, and DB Meri Dervishi face their toughest challenge yet, tasked with containing Fimiani’s explosive playmaking. The Pirates’ “black wall” defensive line, led by Bologna, Raffaelli, Benedetti, and Stefano Leidi, aims to disrupt the Guelfi’s passing rhythm and force errors.

Key Matchups to Watch

Baidal vs. Schooler: Can Baidal’s aerial attack evade Schooler’s relentless pursuit?
Fimiani vs. ‘Black Wall’: Will Guelfi’s QB outmaneuver the Pirates’ defensive front?
Frankie Stola/Eystin Salum vs. Pirates’ Secondary: A battle of speed and precision.

Playoff Implications and Momentum Builder
For the Pirates, this match is more than redemption; it’s a litmus test for their playoff aspirations. A strong performance could galvanize momentum ahead of next week’s clash against Skorpions Varese. Can their home crowd will them to an upset?

How to Watch
Fans worldwide can catch the action via FIDAF.TV on YouTube, with subscription options at €3.99 (Regular Season) or €5.99 (including Playoffs and Super Bowl).