100,000+ Watch NFL's First Game Down Under in Melbourne
The San Francisco 49ers crushed the Los Angeles Rams 27-7 in front of a roaring crowd of over 100,000 fans at Melbourne Cricket Ground, marking the NFL's historic first game in the Asia-Pacific region. The energy was electric as Australia welcomed American football in a big way.
More than 100,000 fans packed into Melbourne Cricket Ground to witness history as the NFL touched down in Australia for the very first time.
The San Francisco 49ers delivered a dominant 27-7 victory over the Los Angeles Rams in the league's debut Asia-Pacific game. The atmosphere was unforgettable, with planes soaring overhead and the Jonas Brothers rocking the half-time show at the iconic MCG.
The 49ers made a smart choice that paid off big. They arrived in Melbourne a full week early to adjust and soak in the city's energy. The Rams, on the other hand, spent barely 24 hours in Australia before game time after their grueling 16-hour flight.
"I love when they came out and they were booing. We were out here for a week. We enjoyed the city. I don't think you can fly 16 hours and be ready to play," 49ers receiver Deebo Samuel said with a grin.
The difference showed on the field. After the Rams briefly took a four-point lead in the second quarter, the 49ers took complete control. Demarcus Robinson, Mike Evans, and Samuel all scored touchdowns as quarterback Brock Purdy completed 25 of 34 passes for 205 yards.
The game kicked off a record-breaking 2026 NFL international season featuring nine games played outside the United States. For this first matchup, teams embarked on the league's longest-ever road trip to bring American football to eager fans on the other side of the world.
The Ripple Effect
This historic game represents more than just a win for the 49ers. It's a milestone for growing the NFL's global fanbase and bringing the excitement of American football to millions of new fans across the Asia-Pacific region. The massive turnout proves that sports can unite people across continents and cultures.
Rams coach Sean McVay took full responsibility despite the travel challenges, saying he and his team simply weren't good enough on the day. That kind of accountability, combined with Australia's passionate welcome, shows the NFL made the right call bringing the game down under.
Australia just proved it's ready for more world-class football action.
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Based on reporting by BBC Sport
This story was written by BrightWire based on verified news reports.
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