Steelers Edge Vikings 24-21 in Historic Ireland NFL Showdown

UPDATE: The Pittsburgh Steelers clinched a thrilling 24-21 victory over the Minnesota Vikings today at Croke Park, marking the first regular season NFL game ever held in Ireland. This historic matchup unfolded on October 1, 2025, and showcased an intense battle that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the final whistle.

With Kenneth Gainwell scoring two touchdowns and DK Metcalf adding another, the Steelers improved their season record to 3-1. The Vikings, despite a late-game surge, were unable to secure a win, leaving them with a similar record. The atmosphere at Croke Park was electric as fans witnessed a nail-biting finish.

The game started with an exciting turn of events when Steelers’ defensive back Jalen Ramsey recovered a fumble from Vikings’ quarterback Carson Wentz, sprinting 62 yards for what initially seemed like a touchdown. However, after a video review, the play was overturned. The Vikings took an early lead with a 41-yard field goal by Will Reichard with just over six minutes left in the first quarter.

In a quick response, Gainwell pushed through for a one-yard touchdown, giving the Steelers a 7-3 lead at the end of the first quarter. Quarterback Aaron Rodgers then connected with Metcalf on an impressive 80-yard touchdown pass, extending their lead to 14-3 early in the second quarter.

As the half approached, the Vikings narrowed the gap with another field goal, bringing the score to 14-6 at halftime. The Steelers remained in control, but the Vikings were poised for a comeback.

In the third quarter, Gainwell scored his second touchdown after an interception by T.J. Watt, pushing the Steelers’ lead to 21-6. A field goal from kicker Chris Boswell shortly after further solidified the Steelers’ advantage.

However, the Vikings were not done yet. Wentz found Zavier Scott for a 16-yard touchdown, followed by a two-point conversion pass to Jalen Nailor, closing the gap to 21-14 with under eight minutes left. As the clock ticked down, Wentz threw another touchdown pass to Nailor, bringing the score to 24-21 with less than two minutes remaining.

In a dramatic finish, the Steelers thought they had intercepted a pass that could have sealed the game, but the review ruled it an incomplete pass, allowing the Vikings one last chance. Despite their efforts, the Vikings were unable to reach the red zone, and the Steelers held on for the victory.

This landmark game at Croke Park not only showcased the excitement of NFL football but also marked a significant moment for the league’s expansion into international markets. Fans from both teams left the stadium buzzing with excitement, already anticipating what next week will bring.

Looking ahead, both teams aim to build on this performance as they continue their season journeys. Fans will be watching closely as the Steelers prepare for their next matchup, hoping to maintain their winning momentum.