By Harshit | October 6, 2025 | 10:15 PM BST | London, UK
Tottenham Hotspur Stadium was buzzing with excitement as the Minnesota Vikings narrowly defeated the Cleveland Browns 21-17 in the NFL’s 2025 Vikings vs Browns London matchup. The international game, attended by 61,082 fans, featured a sea of jerseys and team colors, showcasing the growing global appeal of American football.
The Vikings were eager to rebound after a narrow loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers in Dublin last week, becoming the first team to play back-to-back international games in different countries. Browns quarterback Dillon Gabriel also made history, becoming the first QB to start his NFL career in an international game.
Browns Strike First in Vikings vs Browns London
Cleveland opened the scoring after Vikings running back Jordan Mason fumbled on Minnesota’s first drive. Rookie Quinshon Judkins seized the opportunity with a 32-yard run to the 15-yard line.
Gabriel connected with tight end Harold Fannin Jr. for a play-action touchdown, giving the Browns a 7-0 lead. Minnesota responded quickly: on the next drive, running back Cam Akers executed a trick play, throwing a 32-yard touchdown pass to Josh Oliver, tying the game 7-7 late in the first quarter.
Tight Contest Continues in London
The second quarter was dominated by punting exchanges, but Gabriel led a two-minute drill to set up a 31-yard field goal by Andre Szmyt, putting Cleveland ahead 10-7 at halftime. During the break, British singer-songwriter RAYE energized the crowd with a lively performance, setting the stage for an intense second half.
Vikings Take the Lead
In the third quarter, stand-in quarterback Carson Wentz orchestrated a nine-play, 59-yard drive capped by Jordan Mason’s three-yard touchdown run. Star receivers Jordan Addison and Justin Jefferson contributed key plays, helping Minnesota take a 14-10 lead.
Cleveland answered with a 16-play, 74-yard drive ending in a touchdown to David Njoku, reclaiming the lead 17-14 heading into the final quarter.
Defensive Heroics and the Game-Winning Drive
Cleveland’s defense made pivotal stops, including a forced fumble by Isaiah McGuire. Despite a missed 51-yard field goal by Will Reichard, Minnesota had one last chance. With under a minute left, Wentz connected with Jefferson for a 21-yard gain, followed by a 12-yard touchdown pass to Jordan Addison, securing the Vikings’ 21-17 victory in this memorable Vikings vs Browns London clash.
Looking Ahead
The NFL’s London series continues next week with the Denver Broncos vs. New York Jets at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, followed by Los Angeles Rams vs. Jacksonville Jaguars at Wembley Stadium.
Back in the U.S., the 1-4 Browns face a crucial AFC North game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, while the Vikings enjoy a bye week before their Week 7 matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles.
This Vikings vs Browns London game highlighted the global appeal of American football and delivered a thrilling contest filled with late-game heroics, showcasing the NFL’s expanding international footprint.
