NFL Rio Game: Dallas Cowboys to Face Baltimore Ravens in Historic Matchup at Maracanã This Sunday.
An unprecedented chapter in the history of American football in Brazil will be written this Sunday, October 27. The iconic Maracanã Stadium in Rio de Janeiro will host the first NFL Rio Game, featuring a high-profile clash between the Dallas Cowboys and the Baltimore Ravens. The game, part of the third week of the NFL regular season, promises to capture the attention of Brazilian and international fans, marking the league’s debut on Rio’s soil.
This matchup is more than just a regular-season game; it’s an event that transcends the field. Expectations are for a grand spectacle, worthy of a “Brazilian Super Bowl,” as some are already calling it. The city of Rio de Janeiro is preparing to host a globally significant event, solidifying the country as an important destination for the NFL‘s international expansion.
The Teams’ Season So Far
Both the Cowboys and the Ravens enter Week 3 with identical records: one win and one loss. This parity makes the Maracanã game a potential turning point for the rest of the season. The team that emerges victorious from the Rio contest will secure a winning record, while the loser will find themselves in a delicate position, accumulating two losses in just three games played.
The Dallas Cowboys, theoretically the home team for this event, are coming off an impressive 37-20 victory over the Washington Commanders. Meanwhile, the Baltimore Ravens are looking to bounce back after a surprising 24-17 loss to the New Orleans Saints.
A Historic Milestone for the NFL in Brazil
The choice of Rio de Janeiro to host this game is a significant step in the NFL‘s global expansion strategy. Following the successful debut with two games in São Paulo in 2024 and 2025, the league is expanding its presence to a new iconic city in Brazil.
For the Dallas Cowboys, this game marks their first international commitment outside the United States since 2014, when they faced the Jacksonville Jaguars in London. The Ravens, on the other hand, have international game experience, having played in London in the 2017 and 2023 seasons, with a record of one win and one loss on foreign soil.
Cowboys’ Training at Ninho do Urubu
An interesting detail of this event is the use of Flamengo‘s training facility, Ninho do Urubu, by the Dallas Cowboys stars. Throughout the week, the Texas players conducted their preparations for the duel against the Ravens at the Flamengo training center.
On Friday, October 25, Flamengo players such as Léo Ortiz and Emerson Royal had the opportunity to closely observe the Cowboys‘ training routine. The experience included participation in a press conference with Dallas coach Brian Schottenheimer and observation of the on-field activity.
Flamengo and NFL: A Partnership Beyond the Field
The connection between Brazilian soccer and the NFL extends beyond this game. In early September, Flamengo announced an innovative partnership with the American football league, launching an exclusive line of merchandise that blends the identity of the Rio club with the North American organization.
Flamengo fans passionate about American football can now express their dual passions through jerseys, jackets, and hoodies. Product prices range from R$399.99 to R$1,199.99, offering a new way for fans to engage with both sports.
Where to Watch the NFL Rio Game
For fans wishing to follow the historic matchup, the game will be broadcast live on the pay-TV channel SporTV. The GETV platform on YouTube will also stream the entire game. Additionally, Globo will broadcast the halftime show, featuring renowned performers including DJ Pedro Sampaio and Puerto Rican superstar Ricky Martin.
The expectation is that the NFL Rio Game will not only entertain but also inspire a new generation of American football fans in Brazil, strengthening the league’s presence and impact in the country.
By Equipe M360
