Vikings draw historic double in international slate

Vikings Make NFL History with Back-to-Back International Games
The Minnesota Vikings are set to etch their name in NFL history this fall, becoming the first team to play consecutive international games in two different countries. This groundbreaking announcement, unveiled as part of the NFL’s 2025 international slate, has fans buzzing with excitement. The Vikings will take on the Pittsburgh Steelers in Dublin, Ireland, on September 28, followed by a clash against the Cleveland Browns in London, England, on October 5. Here’s everything you need to know about this historic moment for the Vikings and the NFL.
A New Chapter in NFL Globalization
The NFL has been steadily expanding its global footprint, bringing American football to international audiences through games in London, Munich, and beyond. This year, the league is pushing boundaries further with a record seven international games in the 2025 season. The Vikings’ doubleheader stands out as a bold step in this mission, showcasing the sport’s growing appeal across the Atlantic.
Why This Matters
Playing back-to-back games in Ireland and England is more than a scheduling quirk—it’s a testament to the NFL’s ambition to make football a global phenomenon. For the Vikings, it’s an opportunity to grow their international fanbase, particularly in the UK, where they’ve enjoyed strong support during past London games. The team’s owner, Zygi Wilf, expressed enthusiasm about the unique challenge, noting that UK fans often create a “homefield environment” for the Vikings.
The Logistics of a Historic Trip
This two-week European adventure presents both opportunities and challenges. The Vikings will be the road team for both games, facing the Steelers at Dublin’s iconic Croke Park and the Browns at London’s Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. The early kickoff times—9:30 a.m. ET in Dublin and a similar morning slot in London—add a layer of complexity for players adjusting to time zones and game-day routines.

Dublin vs. Pittsburgh Steelers (Sept. 28): Croke Park, a historic venue known for Gaelic football, will host its first NFL game. The matchup against the Steelers, a franchise with a storied legacy, promises an electric atmosphere.
London vs. Cleveland Browns (Oct. 5): Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, a state-of-the-art facility, will be the stage for the Vikings’ second international test. The Browns, making only their second international appearance, aim to spoil the Vikings’ historic run.

Competitive Edge or Scheduling Hurdle?
The Vikings’ international doubleheader comes with potential advantages and pitfalls. On one hand, staying in Europe for two weeks could minimize travel fatigue compared to multiple transatlantic trips. The team may set up a temporary base in the UK or Ireland, allowing players to acclimate to the time difference and focus on preparation. Analysts suggest this continuity could give the Vikings a competitive edge, especially against opponents less accustomed to international play.
Challenges on the Horizon
However, the early morning kickoffs and extended time away from home could disrupt the team’s rhythm. The Vikings face a demanding schedule, with these games falling in Weeks 5 and 6, potentially impacting their performance in subsequent matches. Coach Kevin O’Connell will need to leverage his experience from past international games to keep the team sharp. Fans are already speculating about how this historic stretch will shape the Vikings’ 2025 season.
Fan Frenzy and Global Impact
The announcement has sparked a wave of excitement on social media, with Vikings fans and NFL enthusiasts celebrating the team’s role in making history. Posts on X highlight the pride in seeing Minnesota lead the charge in the NFL’s global expansion. For international fans, particularly in Ireland and the UK, the games offer a rare chance to experience the Vikings live.
A Boost for the Vikings’ Brand
The Vikings have a rich history of international games, having played in London multiple times. Their 2013 and 2017 games in the UK drew massive crowds, and team officials expect similar enthusiasm this time around. Playing in Dublin’s Croke Park, a cultural landmark, adds a unique layer of prestige to the Steelers matchup. The Vikings’ leadership sees these games as a chance to deepen ties with global fans and cement their status as an NFL powerhouse.
What’s Next for the Vikings?
As the NFL prepares to release its full 2025 schedule on May 14, all eyes are on how the Vikings’ international stretch fits into their broader season. With eight home games and nine road games in an odd-numbered year, the team faces a challenging slate. The addition of rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy and new defensive talent like Matt Harmon and Elijah Williams could provide the spark needed to navigate this historic run.
Looking Ahead
The Vikings’ European adventure is more than a pair of games—it’s a statement about the NFL’s future and Minnesota’s place in it. Whether they emerge victorious or face setbacks, the team’s resilience and fan support will be on full display. As Zygi Wilf put it, the chance to play in “back-to-back international games in different countries was something we could not pass up.”
Conclusion: A Historic Moment for Football
The Minnesota Vikings are poised to make waves in 2025, not just on the field but in the annals of NFL history. Their unprecedented double international slate is a bold step toward globalizing American football, and fans worldwide are ready to cheer them on. From the hallowed grounds of Croke Park to the modern marvel of Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, the Vikings’ journey promises drama, excitement, and a chance to inspire a new generation of fans. Stay tuned to Noyzy News for updates as the NFL season approaches!