The Paris Musketeers are set to play their second game of the 2026 European Football Alliance season. After opening the campaign with a thrilling 21-20 victory over Frankfurt Galaxy, the Paris Musketeers now need to confirm their strong start against a Czech franchise that suffered a heavy defeat in its season opener.
At the end of Week 1 of the 2026 EFA season, the Paris Musketeers sit alongside the Nordic Storm and the Munich Ravens at the top of the standings. This second outing of the year therefore represents an opportunity for Jack Del Rio’s players to strengthen their position at the summit of this new European league.
Of course, not everything was perfect during the opening game on the difficult field of Frankfurt Galaxy. A fairly logical situation for a Paris team still shaking off the rust and searching for chemistry. However, one strength that has already defined this franchise in previous years showed up immediately once again: the defense.
For several seasons now, the Paris Musketeers defense has been one of the best units in European football. A reputation it confirmed once again last Friday night. The Paris defense allowed only one offensive touchdown, the second Frankfurt score coming on an interception return, and consistently shut down the German offense, especially on the final play of the game when Ethan Garbers was denied by the Paris defensive wall. A defense that will once again need to deliver this Saturday.
On the other side of the ball, the offense took a little longer to find its rhythm. Once again, that was understandable. American quarterback Zach Edwards had not played at this level in over a year and still needs time to build chemistry with his offensive line and receiving corps. However, once backed into a corner, the offense responded as well. Two touchdowns in less than four minutes — one by Hugo Tekedam and another by Zach Edwards himself — allowed Paris to retake the lead against Frankfurt. And make no mistake: once this offense truly finds its cruising speed, it will become extremely difficult for opposing defenses to handle.
Speaking of opponents, after facing Frankfurt Galaxy in Week 1, the Paris Musketeers now prepare for a Prague Lions team that possesses undeniable talent.
Founded in 1991, the Czech franchise joined the European League of Football in 2023, the same season as the Paris Musketeers. Their first years in the European competition were difficult, with only two combined victories over their first two seasons. However, things improved significantly last year as Prague finished with a positive 7-5 record, proof of the team’s steady progression.
This will also be the first meeting in history between the Paris Musketeers and the Prague Lions. While last week’s matchup against Frankfurt already felt like a European classic, this week’s clash will be completely new territory. That situation can always be dangerous since facing an unfamiliar opponent is never easy. Still, the Musketeers will have a few familiar faces to rely on when scouting Prague.
Starting with the Czech franchise’s quarterback: Jaylon Henderson, a player well known to the Paris fans after serving as the Musketeers’ quarterback during the 2025 season. Everyone in Paris remembers his qualities: a strong arm, a warrior mentality, and devastating running ability whenever he finds open space. In fact, Henderson scored Prague’s only two touchdowns last week against the Nordic Storm.
And Henderson is not alone. Prague’s American-Czech roster features several talented playmakers. At wide receiver, William Patterson, formerly of Rhein Fire and the Madrid Bravos, can pile up receptions if defenses fail to keep him under constant surveillance. The running game will also rely on Adam Zouzelka, a historic figure within the Lions organization and undoubtedly one of the best Czech players currently active.
The defense, despite surrendering 47 points in Week 1, also possesses several weapons. American imports Ken Hike Jr. and Tyrus Guilford will try to disrupt the Paris passing attack and contain the Musketeers receivers. Make no mistake about it: this Prague team has serious quality.
The time has now come for the Paris Musketeers to reconnect with the French crowd. This Saturday at 6 PM at Bauer Stadium, the Paris franchise will play the very first home game in its EFA history against the Prague Lions. A matchup that promises to be spectacular. Tickets are available at Ticketmaster.fr!
