This was the third matchup between the two franchises, and while the Madrid Bravos managed to win the first encounter—something no other team has done this season—it seemed to be a one-time event. After a clear loss in the second game, the Wildcard Round also ended with a decisive victory for Rhein Fire.

Bravos can’t control Fire’s playmakers

Rhein Fire started the game confidently, relying on their strong rushing attack. Their running back, Glen Toonga, scored two rushing touchdowns in the first half. After his first touchdown, Toonga warned the Bravos from the sideline, saying, "It's going to be a long day for you." Despite Toonga’s strong performance, he wasn’t the best player in the first half. Wide receiver Harlan Kwofie, who had a quieter regular season, shone brightly, catching passes for 174 yards and three touchdowns. Kwofie was also the only receiver for Fire to catch passes. Although the Bravos managed to narrow the gap with a touchdown by Dwayne Obi, Fire was simply too strong. The Bravos also hurt themselves with penalties, which often put their offense in tough field positions.

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Fire finishes strong

Without any real threat, Rhein Fire continued to play strong defense, keeping the Bravos at a distance. To cap off his day, Harlan Kwofie scored his fourth touchdown, sealing the game. Even the backups for Rhein Fire got to play in the second half and experience some playoff action. In the end, the Bravos lost 10-40 to Rhein Fire.

For the Madrid Bravos, this loss marks the end of their first season. Despite the clear playoff exit, the Bravos can be proud of how their franchise started in the ELF. With Rhein Fire advancing to the semifinals, they will now face Stuttgart Surge in what promises to be a true highlight—a rematch of last season’s Championship Game.

"Job ain’t finished"

In an interview with “ProSieben MAXX,” Kwofie remained calm despite his incredible performance. For him, it was just another win. “We won, and we’re happy, but now we move on. The job ain’t finished.” Rhein Fire seems ready for the Stuttgart Surge, who were already secured a spot in the semifinals due to their better stats in the regular season compared to Rhein Fire.

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