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Explore how the Washington Commanders and Miami Dolphins created history by playing the NFL’s first-ever regular-season game in Spain. Learn about the storyline, the special QB connection, and what this global moment means for fans.
A Major Milestone: NFL Arrives in Spain
For the first time in league history, the NFL in Spain became a reality as the Washington Commanders and Miami Dolphins kicked off at the iconic Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. This historic matchup introduced thousands of Spanish fans to the thrill of American football, marking a big moment in the NFL’s global journey.
Spain is now the sixth country outside the United States to host a regular-season NFL game—proving how fast the sport is spreading across the world.
Two Teams, One Big Opportunity
Both Washington and Miami entered the Madrid game with something important to prove.
The Commanders, still without a win in international play, once again turned to veteran quarterback Marcus Mariota. With Jayden Daniels unable to play, Mariota stepped into his fifth start of the season, hoping to guide his team to a long-awaited overseas victory.
The Dolphins, meanwhile, faced their own challenges. Their record in international games stood at 2-5, and they had lost their last four matchups abroad. This made the Madrid game a key chance to break their negative run and regain momentum.
Quick Comparison: Commanders vs Dolphins Before the Madrid Match
| Team | International Record | Biggest Concern | Starting QB |
|---|---|---|---|
| Washington Commanders | 0-1-1 | No overseas wins | Marcus Mariota |
| Miami Dolphins | 2-5 | Four straight losses | Tua Tagovailoa |
A Story Beyond Football: Mariota and Tagovailoa
One of the most beautiful storylines of the night had nothing to do with stats or standings.
Both quarterbacks—Marcus Mariota and Tua Tagovailoa—share a deep connection that goes back to their roots in Honolulu, Hawai‘i.
Both attended Saint Louis High School, a place known for producing top athletes. Tagovailoa first met Mariota at a passing academy when he was only in fourth grade. From then on, Mariota became someone he admired and learned from.
Seeing these two Polynesian quarterbacks face each other on an international stage made the game far more meaningful. Tagovailoa called it a “really cool opportunity” not only for kids in Hawai‘i but also for young players in Samoa, Tonga, New Zealand, and other Pacific communities.
For Mariota, sharing this moment with his family in Spain made the experience even more emotional. He said that coming from the middle of the Pacific to play in front of fans at the Bernabéu was “unbelievable” and something he would never take for granted.
Madrid’s Warm Welcome to the NFL
Both teams took time to enjoy Madrid before stepping onto the field. From sightseeing to exploring the city’s historic streets, players embraced the chance to represent the NFL on a new global stage.
The energy inside the stadium made it clear: Spanish fans were ready and excited to witness American football live. The moment felt both historic and natural—showing that the NFL truly belongs to the world.
Conclusion: A New Era for NFL in Spain
The Commanders vs Dolphins matchup was more than a game. It was a celebration of culture, connection, and the global growth of the NFL. From the inspiring quarterback story to the excitement of the fans, Madrid’s first NFL game set the stage for many more to come.
Spain has now officially joined the league’s international family—and this is only the beginning.