"Play complementary football" – Vikings set for Paris showdown

The upcoming weekend promises excitement, both in the battle for the two remaining playoff spots and in the race for the top positions – and with it, the question of which two teams will skip the first playoff round.

Among them are the Vienna Vikings, already qualified for the playoffs and currently – with a 10-1 record – holding the top seed in the playoff picture, though two other teams share the same mark. A win in their next game against the Paris Musketeers would secure them the No. 1 seed and a direct ticket to the semifinals. That is also their goal, as Chris Calaycay emphasizes: "We’re gonna play it to win and go 1-0 like we do every time." "We’re playing for that bye week, so we have more time to prepare," he added.  

The Vienna Vikings are up against a team fighting for its season, as the Paris Musketeers are still in the hunt for a playoff spot – and their situation could not be clearer: win and you’re in.

The game against Paris not only marks the end of the regular season but – with the playoff picture in mind for both sides – will already offer a taste of playoff football. "This game is for one to three in the seedings for us, which means either a wild card game or the No. 1 seed or possibly the No. 2 seed. Paris is fighting for their lives. We have an amazing crowd, so it’s going to be intense and feel like a playoff game," said Calaycay.

The Vienna Vikings have dealt with similar challenges before, having faced the Wroclaw Panthers last weekend, who were in the same situation and desperately needed a win. "It’s going to be a good test for us and it’s very good heading into the playoffs, because you want to be used to that kind of atmosphere," the head coach explained. They proved their strength in that challenge, coming away with a 50–36 victory against the Panthers. 

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Paris, on the other hand, faced two seemingly easier matchups – the Helvetic Mercenaries in Week 13 and the Cologne Centurions in Week 11 – the only winless teams this season. "I do think it’s a benefit for us that we played against competitive opponents."

The Vikings are set to make life difficult for the French team led by head coach Jack Del Rio. However, Chris Calaycay is aware of the Musketeers’ strengths: "Paris is the number one defense, and we did get 40 on them last time. I'm sure they remember that and they’re gonna come in prepared." The Musketeers’ defense is indeed impressive, as they allow their opponents to score an average of only 12.9 points. "They’re gonna play a lot man to man and want to stick tight to you. You have to be able to beat those matchups. We need to get our offense on the field – we need to get our weapons on the field. And if you can do that, you’re gonna have a good opportunity," Calaycay added. 

Vienna is in football fever. With high temperatures and perfect weather, fans can look forward not only to an exciting game but also to a football festival, as the Hohe Warte Stadium in Vienna is nearly sold out – which will be a new franchise record. Kickoff is at 18:00 CET, with the broadcast starting at 17:45 CET.

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