The NFL made history on September 28, 2025, with its first-ever regular-season game in Dublin, Ireland. The Pittsburgh Steelers defeated the Minnesota Vikings 24-21 at Croke Park in a dramatic Week 4 matchup. The NFL Dublin game score: Steelers vs. Vikings highlights from Week 4 will be remembered for late-game drama, standout individual performances, and a vibrant Irish crowd of more than 74,000 fans.
This historic clash was more than just a football game. It was a milestone for the NFL’s growing international presence. Fans in Dublin experienced an electric atmosphere as veteran quarterbacks Aaron Rodgers and Carson Wentz went head-to-head. Both teams entered the game with a 2-1 record, and the result could shape their early-season momentum.
Steelers vs. Vikings Game Recap and Key Highlights
The Steelers came prepared, despite losing starting running back Jaylen Warren to a knee injury before kickoff. Veteran Aaron Rodgers led the offense with precision, while replacement running back Kenneth Gainwell turned heads with a career performance. Gainwell rushed for 72 yards and two touchdowns, proving crucial to Pittsburgh’s win.
The first score came early in the game when the Vikings’ Will Reichard converted a 41-yard field goal. Pittsburgh answered with a Gainwell touchdown run, giving the Steelers a 7-3 lead. Rodgers then connected with DK Metcalf on an explosive 80-yard touchdown, extending the lead to 14-3. Minnesota struggled to respond, managing only field goals in the first half and going into halftime trailing 14-6.
Momentum stayed with Pittsburgh after the break. Defensive stars T.J. Watt and Nick Herbig pressured Wentz relentlessly, recording key sacks. An interception by safety DeShon Elliott and a second touchdown run by Gainwell pushed the Steelers ahead 21-6. Chris Boswell added a field goal to make it 24-6, seemingly sealing the game.
But the Vikings refused to quit. Carson Wentz found rookie Zavier Scott for a touchdown and successful two-point conversion, cutting the lead to 24-14. Then, with under three minutes left, Wentz hit Jalen Nailor on fourth down after a massive 81-yard play by Jordan Addison set up the score. Suddenly, it was 24-21, and Croke Park erupted.
The Vikings attempted an onside kick but failed to recover. Rodgers and the Steelers managed the clock and secured the historic victory, improving to 3-1 on the season. Minnesota dropped to 2-2 after a spirited but incomplete comeback.
Trusted outlets such as Associated Press and BBC News highlighted the game’s significance as a cultural event as well as a football spectacle, noting the record Irish attendance and the NFL’s growing European fan base.
What This Win Means for Pittsburgh and Minnesota
For the Steelers, this victory is a statement of resilience. Losing Jaylen Warren could have derailed their ground game, but Gainwell stepped up impressively. Rodgers, at 41, showed his experience by avoiding costly mistakes and managing drives efficiently. Defensive leaders like T.J. Watt and Patrick Queen set the tone with relentless pressure on Wentz.
For the Vikings, the narrow loss is frustrating but not devastating. Carson Wentz displayed poise under pressure and nearly engineered a stunning comeback. Justin Jefferson was outstanding in the first half with eight catches for 97 yards but faded after halftime as Pittsburgh adjusted its coverage. Rookie Zavier Scott’s first career touchdown is a bright spot, and Jordan Addison’s late 81-yard catch proves he’s a deep threat.
The game also proves the NFL’s international push is paying off. Dublin’s Croke Park hosted over 74,000 fans, showing strong appetite for American football in Ireland. This event could lead to more regular-season games in Dublin and further expansion across Europe.
The Steelers now sit at 3-1 with growing confidence, while the Vikings regroup at 2-2 after a hard-fought loss. The NFL Dublin game score: Steelers vs. Vikings highlights from Week 4 will be remembered as a milestone for both the league and its global audience.
FYI (keeping you in the loop)-
Q1: Who won the NFL Dublin game between the Steelers and Vikings?
The Pittsburgh Steelers won the first NFL regular-season game in Dublin, beating the Minnesota Vikings 24-21.
Q2: Who were the standout players in the Steelers vs. Vikings Dublin game?
Aaron Rodgers managed the Steelers’ offense well, while Kenneth Gainwell scored two rushing touchdowns. T.J. Watt and Nick Herbig made key defensive plays. Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison shined for the Vikings.
Q3: How many fans attended the NFL Dublin game?
More than 74,000 fans attended the historic game at Croke Park, making it one of Ireland’s largest sporting events of the year.
Q4: Why was this game important for the NFL?
This was the first regular-season NFL game in Ireland, part of the league’s effort to expand its global fan base and host games across Europe.
Q5: What is next for the Steelers and Vikings after this game?
The Steelers move to 3-1 and look to continue their strong start. The Vikings, now 2-2, will regroup and prepare for Week 5 in London.
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