The World Games 2025 Flag Football: Mexico fend off USA in historic title defence

Mexico's women wrote another stunning chapter of flag football history, defeating the United States to become back-to-back title holders at The World Games 2025 in Chengdu on Sunday (17 August).

In a game steeped in defensive pressure, Tania Rincon’s second touchdown, landing in the dying second of the game, highlighted Mexico's second triumph in as many World Games appearances at Chengdu No. 7 High School Eastern Campus Athletics Field.

“I feel proud of my team. Each one of my teammates gave an amazing game: the coaches, the staff. We had our families cheering, people from Mexico sending the best vibes, so I’m so blessed and happy we played the best football out there,” a jubilant quarterback, Diana Flores told reporters after.

“We say in Mexico, ‘pienso en oro’, that’s our signature, ‘think of the gold’, and we came with that mindset to each play of the game; we never gave up. We gave our everything on the field, and at the end, I think that’s what makes teams great, so I’m proud of my team.”

Defence, pressure and errors dominated much of the first half as the two flag football titans looked for the first advantage in the much-anticipated title rematch.

After a scoreless 19 minutes, Team USA broke the deadlock when veteran quarterback Vanita Krouch was able to connect with one of her favourite receivers, Ashlea Klam, for a touchdown. With Isabella Geraci on hand to add a one-point conversion, the US went ahead 7-0.

Flurrying immediately into action, Mexico deployed its notorious two-quarterback play to respond with a Monica Rangel touchdown and a two-point conversion.

A critical pick by Allison Salazar on the USA’s second possession then gifted the Mexicans back possession. And with just 19 seconds on the clock, Flores was able to find Tania Rincoin for another touchdown to hand Mexico a 14-7 lead at halftime.

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