American Samoa stunned the U.S. men's flag football team in group play at the IFAF World Championship tournament in Germany on Friday.
American Samoa won 38-32, led by former Maryland quarterback Taulia Tagovailoa (younger brother of Tua Tagovailoa). He completed 29 of 36 passes for 213 yards and five touchdowns.
The U.S. went undefeated to win world titles in 2014, 2016, 2018, 2021 and 2024. Its last defeat was to Austria in the final in 2012.
The U.S., which opened group play by beating Israel 50-38 on Thursday, will advance to the quarterfinals with a win over Australia in its last group game later Friday.
The U.S. women, winners of the last three world titles, went 3-0 in group play and face Germany in the quarterfinals on Saturday.
The tournament runs through Sunday.
Flag football makes its Olympic debut at the 2028 Los Angeles Games.
The U.S. gets automatic spots in the Olympic men's and women's tournaments as host nation, subject to participation in 2027 continental championships and ongoing compliance with international rules and regulations.
American Samoa just ended the USA's 14-year run without a loss.
— Int’l Fed of American Football (@IFAFMedia) August 14, 2026
The last time USA men lost a competitive match was 2012, a silver medal finish behind Austria at the World Championships. Not anymore… #FlagFootball#IFAF#RoadToLA28#OlympicQualifierspic.twitter.com/NXvhz54fHL