The 2025 NFL International Series kicked off with an electrifying showdown in London, where the Minnesota Vikings orchestrated a stunning late-game comeback to defeat the Cleveland Browns 21-17. This dramatic opening to the international slate at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on October 5, 2025, delivered high-stakes football and set the tone for an exciting season. Fans witnessed a captivating battle filled with historical milestones and nail-biting finishes.
London Roars: A Historic International Opener
London’s Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, a venue accustomed to raucous soccer crowds, transformed into a vibrant sea of NFL colors for the 40th regular-season game held in the British capital. Over 61,000 passionate fans, predominantly Vikings supporters, packed the arena. This event marked not only the start of the 2025 NFL London games but also several unique historical moments. The Minnesota Vikings became the first team to play back-to-back international games in different countries, having faced the Pittsburgh Steelers in Dublin just a week prior. Their London visit presented a crucial opportunity to rebound after that narrow defeat.
Across the field, rookie quarterback Dillon Gabriel made history for the Cleveland Browns, becoming the first signal-caller ever to make his inaugural NFL start in an international game. His debut, replacing the injured Joe Flacco, added an intriguing layer to an already high-stakes contest. Gabriel’s performance was under intense scrutiny, with the Browns’ 1-3 record amplifying the pressure. Cleveland’s strategy centered on a strong run game and quick passes to support their young quarterback, backed by their league-leading defense that had allowed a mere 222.5 yards per game.
First Half: Trades and Tight Defense
The game’s scoring began with an early miscue by Minnesota. On the Vikings’ opening drive, running back Jordan Mason fumbled the ball, setting up the Browns in prime territory. Cleveland’s rookie running back Quinshon Judkins quickly capitalized, breaking a 32-yard run that placed the Browns at the 15-yard line. After two more short runs, Gabriel connected with tight end Harold Fannin Jr. on a play-action pass for his first career NFL touchdown, putting Cleveland up 7-0.
The Vikings responded immediately, showcasing their offensive versatility. On the ensuing drive, Minnesota marched 92 yards on 12 plays. The drive culminated in a clever trick play: running back Cam Akers, taking a direct snap from the wildcat formation, lobbed a precise 32-yard pass to a wide-open tight end Josh Oliver. Oliver strolled into the end zone, leveling the score at 7-7 with 2:30 left in the first quarter. This bold call by head coach Kevin O’Connell highlighted Minnesota’s aggressive play-calling.
The second quarter turned into a defensive slugfest, marked by six consecutive punts from both teams. Scoring opportunities were scarce as both defenses dug in. However, the Browns managed a late two-minute drill before halftime. Despite consecutive incompletions targeting David Njoku and Jerry Jeudy, Cleveland kicker Andre Szmyt successfully converted a 31-yard field goal. This pushed the Browns ahead 10-7 as the teams headed into the locker rooms for the interval.
Halftime Entertainment and Third Quarter Swings
British singer-songwriter RAYE energized the London crowd with a vibrant halftime performance, setting a lively tone for the second half. The Minnesota Vikings seemed to channel that energy, with stand-in quarterback Carson Wentz leading a focused nine-play, 59-yard drive. Star receivers Jordan Addison and Justin Jefferson were instrumental, combining for 36 yards, including Addison’s longest catch of the game. The drive concluded with a three-yard Jordan Mason run up the middle, giving the Vikings their first lead at 14-10.
However, Cleveland quickly mounted a fierce response. Gabriel helmed an immense 16-play, 74-yard drive that chewed up over eight minutes of game clock. He capped it off with an impressive tight-window touchdown throw over the middle to David Njoku. This pivotal score put the Browns back in the driver’s seat, leading 17-14 as the game entered the crucial fourth quarter. Gabriel’s composure under pressure continued to impress in his debut.
Fourth Quarter Thrills: Addison’s Heroics
The final 15 minutes were a testament to Cleveland’s stout defense. Defensive end Isaiah McGuire forced a fumble, quickly ending a promising Vikings drive. Later, defensive tackle Maliek Collins, a seasoned veteran, sacked Wentz, forcing a long 51-yard field goal attempt from Will Reichard. The kick sailed wide right, allowing the Browns to maintain their slim three-point advantage. These defensive stops seemed to preserve Cleveland’s lead.
After three scoreless drives, the spotlight once again found Carson Wentz and the Vikings offense. With less than 30 seconds remaining and trailing by three, Wentz looked to his star receiver, Justin Jefferson. Jefferson wrestled the ball away from cornerback Denzel Ward for a critical 21-yard gain down the sideline, advancing the ball to the Cleveland 27-yard line. This clutch play set the stage for the dramatic finish.
Following short gains by Jalen Nailor and Jordan Addison, Wentz connected with Addison for a 12-yard catch. Addison expertly hauled in the pass and fell into the end zone, securing the game-winning touchdown with just 25 seconds left. The decisive score gave the Minnesota Vikings a 21-17 lead, completing a stunning comeback. Dillon Gabriel attempted a final comeback drive, bringing the Browns to midfield, but a 22-yard completion to Jamari Thrash fell short of the end zone as time expired.
Key Player Performances and Strategic Insights
Dillon Gabriel, despite the loss, delivered a promising debut for the Browns. He finished with 19 completions on 33 attempts for 190 yards and two touchdowns. His rookie counterpart, running back Quinshon Judkins, also impressed with 110 rushing yards on 23 carries, showcasing his potential. Judkins’ explosive 56-yard run was unfortunately called back due to a holding penalty, highlighting missed opportunities that ultimately cost the Browns.
For the Vikings, Carson Wentz, stepping in for the injured J.J. McCarthy, earned his third consecutive start victory. He completed 25 of 34 passes for 236 yards and one touchdown, demonstrating resilience despite an injury-riddled offensive line. Wentz had faced significant pressure, being sacked nine times in his previous two starts. Justin Jefferson was a consistent threat, tallying 7 catches for 123 yards, including pivotal grabs that kept drives alive.
A notable pre-game decision saw Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell bench Jordan Addison for the first quarter due to missing a team walkthrough. Despite this internal disciplinary action, Addison made the most of his playing time, securing the game-winning touchdown. O’Connell’s coaching continued to involve trick plays, such as Akers’ touchdown pass, underscoring their creative offensive approach.
Implications and The Road Ahead
The Minnesota Vikings improved their record to 3-2 with this hard-fought victory. They now head into a much-needed bye week, allowing them to rest and regroup after their international travels. They will return to action in Week 7, hosting the Philadelphia Eagles at U.S. Bank Stadium. This win, particularly given the circumstances, provides a significant morale boost for Minnesota.
The 1-4 Cleveland Browns, on the other hand, face a crucial divisional matchup next week against their AFC North rival, the Pittsburgh Steelers. Despite the loss, Dillon Gabriel’s debut offered glimpses of his potential, but the team’s inability to capitalize on key opportunities and defensive stops ultimately proved costly. The Browns’ strong defense will need to continue its dominant play to help the offense find consistency.
The NFL’s international journey continues over the next two weeks. The Denver Broncos will face the New York Jets at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, followed by the Los Angeles Rams playing the Jacksonville Jaguars at Wembley Stadium. These games underscore the league’s expanding global footprint and the growing appetite for American football worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was significant about the Minnesota Vikings vs. Cleveland Browns London game?
This game was the opening of the 2025 NFL London series and held several historical firsts. The Minnesota Vikings became the first NFL team to play back-to-back international games in different countries (Dublin and London). It also marked rookie quarterback Dillon Gabriel’s first career NFL start for the Cleveland Browns, making him the first QB to debut in an international game. The dramatic finish saw Jordan Addison score the game-winning touchdown with just 25 seconds left, making it a thrilling spectacle for fans.
Where was the 2025 NFL London opener held and what are the next international games?
The 2025 NFL London opener between the Vikings and Browns took place at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London, England. This venue hosted over 61,000 fans for the exciting contest. Following this game, the NFL International Series continues with the Denver Broncos facing the New York Jets at the same Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. The series will then move to Wembley Stadium, where the Los Angeles Rams will play the Jacksonville Jaguars in the subsequent week.
How does this game impact the Minnesota Vikings’ and Cleveland Browns’ season outlook?
The Minnesota Vikings improved their record to 3-2 with this victory, providing a crucial morale boost as they head into a bye week. This win, especially under the pressure of back-to-back international games and with Carson Wentz at quarterback, signals resilience. For the Cleveland Browns, the loss drops them to 1-4. Despite Dillon Gabriel’s promising debut, the team’s struggles to convert opportunities highlight areas for improvement as they face a critical divisional matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers next week.
