The Spanish National League of American Football, LNFA, kicks off the semifinal round this weekend with the top four teams in the country squaring off.
In one semifinal, the unbeaten Las Rozas Black Demons (8-0), who reached the championship final in 2022 only to be defeated by Osos Rivas, will play host to the underdog Zaragoza Hurricanes (4-4) while in the other semifinal, the defending champion Osos Rivas (6-2) from Madrid will travel to Badalona to take on the undefeated Badalona Dracs (8-0).
Saturday, April 15
Zaragoza Hurricanes (4-4: 2nd in East) @ Las Rozas Black Demons (8-0: 1st in West)
The Las Rozas Black Demons enter this game as the second highest scoring team in Spain and also the second leading defensive team. They dominated every team but one in the West conference and won their last three games of the season by a combined score of 121-32. However, they are facing a Hurricanes squad on a roll. They won three of their last four games and pushed the Badalona Dracs to the limit in that one loss.
Still, the Black Demons have to be considered the clear favorites in this one.
Prediction: Las Rozas Black Demons
Osos Rivas (6-2: 2nd in West) @ Badalona Dracs (8-0: 1st in East)
The Badalona Dracs enter the post season in Spain with momentum. They boast the best offense in the country and in their final three games of the regular season scored a combined 156 points. However, in Osos Rivas they are facing by far the best defense. The Madrid based Rivas have allowed a mere 34 points in eight games, or 4.2 points a contest.
While Badalona has to be considered the favorites, Osos Rivas could surprise.
Prediction: Badalona Dracs