The NFL recently made history by hosting its first regular-season game in Berlin, and PEOPLE had a front-row seat to witness the event unfold. The game took place at the iconic Olympiastadion in Berlin, where fans eagerly gathered to watch the Indianapolis Colts face off against the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday, Nov. 9. The excitement was palpable as over 72,000 fans filled the stadium, showcasing their support for their favorite NFL teams through jerseys, caps, and beanies.
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The game itself was nothing short of spectacular, with the Indianapolis Colts emerging as winners in overtime with a score of 31-25 against the Atlanta Falcons. One of the standout performances of the game came from Colts’ running back Jonathan Taylor, who set a franchise record by rushing for an impressive 244 yards on 32 carries and scoring three touchdowns, including an 83-yard run that broke a team record. The historic Olympiastadion was the perfect backdrop for this momentous occasion, evoking memories of Jesse Owens’ legendary achievements at the 1936 Olympics.
Coinciding with the 36th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall, the game symbolized the unity and spirit of celebration that transcends borders. The pre-game festivities included a stirring rendition of “Wings of Change” by The Scorpions, setting the stage for a vibrant and energetic atmosphere within the stadium. Fans from all over the world came together to revel in the fusion of American football and German culture, with spontaneous chants, lively music, and enthusiastic crowd participation creating an electrifying ambiance.
The NFL’s presence in Berlin extended beyond the stadium, with dedicated fan bars for Colts and Falcons supporters, as well as pop-up events near iconic landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate. The city was ablaze with NFL branding, from streetlights to photo booths that allowed fans to create personalized memorabilia. The Marriott Bonvoy hotel chain even collaborated with artist Moritz Adam Schmitt to design NFL-themed keycards as part of a Super Bowl competition, adding an extra element of excitement for football enthusiasts.
Despite being a departure from traditional NFL games, the Berlin matchup offered a unique and unforgettable experience for attendees. From catchy tunes like “Sweet Caroline” to impressive halftime performances, the game was a joyful celebration of sportsmanship and camaraderie. As quarterback Daniel Jones and the Colts’ team danced to German techno music in the end zone, spectators were treated to a one-of-a-kind spectacle that will be remembered for years to come.
In conclusion, the NFL’s inaugural regular-season game in Berlin left a lasting impression on all those in attendance, blending the thrilling action of American football with the rich history and vibrant culture of the city. As the cheers echoed through the Olympiastadion and fans savored every moment of the game, it was a testament to the power of sports to unite people from different backgrounds and create unforgettable memories. The historic event marked a significant milestone in the NFL’s global expansion efforts, paving the way for more exciting matchups and experiences in international locations.