Playoff Matchup Set: Firebirds to Host Minnesota Monsters in AF1 Semifinal

JUL 27, 2026 · Ben Nelson

Playoff Matchup Set: Firebirds to Host Minnesota Monsters in AF1 Semifinal

ALBANY, N.Y. — It's official. The playoff matchup is set.

The Albany Firebirds will host the Minnesota Monsters in the Arena Football One Semifinals on Saturday, August 1 , at MVP Arena , with kickoff scheduled for 4:00 p.m. ET .

Minnesota earned its spot in the semifinals with a playoff win over the Washington Wolfpack, while the Michigan Arsenal advanced after a dominant 70-36 victory over the Kentucky Barrels. The Arsenal will travel to face the top-seeded Nashville Kats on August 2 , while the Firebirds prepare to defend home turf against Minnesota with a trip to Arena Crown 2026 on the line.

The Firebirds and Monsters are no strangers. The two teams met in Albany on April 11 in the Firebirds' 2026 home opener, where Albany opened the season with a convincing 50-23 victory. Now, they'll meet again with much higher stakes as both teams battle for a chance to compete for the Arena Crown.

Saturday's semifinal will be nationally televised on VICE TV , showcasing one of the biggest games of the AF1 season to fans across the country.

Fans are encouraged to arrive early for the return of the Outdoor Playoff Block Party , taking place from 2:00-4:00 p.m. on South Pearl Street outside MVP Arena. The pregame celebration will feature food vendors, music, games, family activities, and more before doors open at 3:00 p.m.

With the Flock behind them and a championship berth on the line, the Firebirds are ready for another postseason battle in Albany.

Game Information

Arena Football One Semifinal

Albany Firebirds vs. Minnesota Monsters

Saturday, August 1

Kickoff: 4:00 p.m. ET

Location: MVP Arena

Doors Open: 3:00 p.m.

Outdoor Playoff Block Party: 2:00-4:00 p.m.

National Broadcast: VICE TV

One game. One city. One goal. Win and advance to Arena Crown 2026.