IFAF is counting down to 2026 by highlighting some of the memorable moments in international American football from the past twelve months.
China has arrived on the international flag football scene. Making their continental debut at IFAF Asia-Oceania women’s continental championships, China won both the Asia competition and the combined Asia-Oceania tournament on home soil in Ningbo.
China beat Japan 25-22 to secure the Asia crown, avenging a group stages loss to a team that is fast becoming a rival. China finished with a 3-1 mark before winning 47-6 against the 4-0 Group B winner the Philippines in the final four bracket to earn the right to face and ultimately defeat Japan.
Australia was beaten 36-29 in the combined tournament’s championship game, meaning China qualified for the 2026 IFAF Flag Football World Championships to be played in Germany next summer.
“We are so excited, we are the champion,” said China quarterback Haolin Feng. “It was not easy. Japan and Australia are so strong. We go to the World Championships next year and we are looking forward to being the final champions.”
Chinese receiver Lin Wen Ze scored four of her team’s five touchdowns in the championship game, which saw the teams matched score for score until China’s defense stopped Australia late in the game. China quarterback Niu Xin Yiu won the MVP award as she threw five touchdowns.
“Ningbo has treated to us to a true feast of flag football to close this IFAF Continental Series in superb style,” said IFAF President Pierre Trochet. “With thanks to the efforts of all the athletes, officials and our outstanding partners at the CRFA and Ningbo Local Organising Committee, I am leaving China with my heart full and my head spinning at the possibilities for our sport throughout this Asia-Oceania region.
“The jump in participation and performance levels over two years since the first edition of this championship puts flag football on an incredible trajectory - and what we have seen today from the junior teams makes me believe this region can become a new powerhouse of the sport.”
Wen Ze gave China an 8-0 lead before Kyana Gordon-Belo replied for Australia then after Wen Ze scored again it was Amelie Prosser-Shaw who tied the game. Wen Ze’s third scoring grab earned the hosts a 22-15 halftime lead.
Australia’s defense held on the second half’s opening drive as Vanessa Lu came up with an interception then Olivia Manfre leveled the game at 22-22 with a diving end zone catch. China’s Gao Zi Xuan put her side ahead 29-22 before what turned out to be the decisive defensive stop on the next Australian possession.
Wen Ze opened a 36-22 lead and although Gordon-Belo made an impressive touchdown catch in reply and Australia’s defense held China in check, the clock ran out on a comeback.
