Home opener in Paris: Musketeers look to stay unbeaten against dangerous Prague Lions
The Paris Musketeers enter Week 2 of the new EFA season with momentum on their side. After securing a dramatic 21:20 road victory against Frankfurt Galaxy in the Friday Night Lights opener, the French franchise now prepares for its first home game of the season at Stade Bauer. Their opponent will be the Prague Lions, who already face early pressure after suffering a heavy 47:13 defeat against Nordic Storm.
After the opening weekend, Paris sits alongside Nordic Storm and the Munich Ravens among the undefeated teams in the league. Week 2 therefore already presents an opportunity for the Musketeers to strengthen their position near the top of the EFA standings.
Paris defense already looks elite again
While the season opener in Frankfurt was far from perfect offensively, one thing immediately looked familiar once again: the defense of the Paris Musketeers.
For several years now, Paris has built a reputation as one of the strongest defensive teams in European football and Week 1 only reinforced that image. The Musketeers allowed just one offensive touchdown against Frankfurt, with the Galaxy’s second score coming on an interception return. Especially on the final play of the game, Paris’ defensive front completely shut down Ethan Garbers and secured the victory.
Offensively, the Musketeers needed some time to settle into rhythm. That was hardly surprising considering quarterback Zach Edwards had not played at this level for over a year. Throughout the game, however, the chemistry between Edwards, his offensive line and his receivers visibly improved.
And once Paris found momentum, the offense suddenly became explosive. Trailing 20:7 late in the fourth quarter, the Musketeers completely flipped the game within only a few minutes. Edwards first connected with Hugo Tekedam for a touchdown before scoring the game winning touchdown himself on a quarterback run.
If this offense continues to develop week by week, Paris could quickly become one of the most complete teams in the EFA.
Prague enters Week 2 under pressure
Despite the heavy loss against Nordic Storm, the Prague Lions remain a team with significant talent and experience.
Founded in 1991, Prague belongs to the most historic football organizations in Europe. Since entering international franchise football in 2023, the organization has steadily improved. After difficult first seasons, the Lions already finished 2025 with a positive 7:5 record, proving the program’s progression.
One of the biggest storylines entering this matchup is the return of quarterback Jaylon Henderson to Paris. The dual threat quarterback played for the Musketeers during the 2025 season and remains well known among the French fanbase. Henderson once again showed his athleticism against Nordic Storm and scored both Prague touchdowns himself.
But Henderson is far from the only dangerous weapon within the Lions offense. Wide receiver William Patterson, formerly with Rhein Fire and the Madrid Bravos, remains capable of creating explosive plays at any moment. Meanwhile Adam Zouzelka continues to be one of the emotional leaders of the Prague offense and one of the strongest Czech players in the league.
Even defensively, Prague possesses several talented imports despite allowing 47 points in Week 1. Especially Ken Hike Jr. and Tyrus Guilford will attempt to slow down the explosive Paris passing attack and challenge the Musketeers receivers physically.
First EFA home game at Stade Bauer
Saturday’s matchup will also mark the first EFA home game in franchise history for the Paris Musketeers. Expectations around Stade Bauer are therefore especially high heading into Week 2.
Head Coach Jack Del Rio already shared his excitement ahead of the home opener:
“I’m excited because it’s our first home game, and I can’t wait to see our fans and see our stadium and have our team perform there for them.”
With Paris entering the matchup at 1:0 and Prague searching for its first win at 0:1, Week 2 presents an intriguing clash between two teams carrying very different momentum into the weekend. While the Musketeers aim to confirm their strong start, the Prague Lions hope to respond after a difficult opening performance against Nordic Storm.