SAO PAULO (AP) — Football fever swept through Brazil on Friday night as the NFL made history, hosting its first-ever game in the soccer-obsessed nation. Corinthians’ NeoQuimica Arena, typically home to one of the country’s top soccer teams, played host to the matchup between the Green Bay Packers and the Philadelphia Eagles.
Despite Corinthians’ longstanding rivalry with local team Palmeiras — whose signature color is green — fans seemed to set aside the soccer rivalry for the night, embracing the green-dominated color schemes of the two visiting NFL teams. The excitement was palpable, especially among the crowd of 42,000, which included an estimated 20% American fans who made the trip south.
The Electric Atmosphere
For many locals, this game marked their first experience with live American football. As the second game of the 2024 NFL season kicked off, the atmosphere in the stadium quickly became a blend of three distinct groups: Eagles diehards, Packers devotees, and a large contingent of neutral fans just happy to be part of the historic event.
While football may be new to some Brazilians, their passion for sports was on full display. Soccer-style chants — including some of the less-than-friendly ones typically reserved for referees in Brazil’s soccer matches — echoed through the arena whenever an official’s call sparked controversy.
A Global Gathering of NFL Fans
Cody Armstrong, a 32-year-old Packers fan from Oakland, California, embodied the international appeal of the event. Traveling with three friends, including two Eagles supporters, Armstrong spent his summer savings to experience the NFL’s first foray into South America. Dressed in their green team jerseys, the group soaked in the excitement while grabbing a bite near the stadium.
“We watched Kansas City take down Baltimore last night at a bar here in Sao Paulo,” Armstrong said. “It’s wild to see so many locals excited about the NFL.”
Brazil’s love for American football is growing, with marketing experts estimating that the sport boasts a fan base of 38 million people across the country. Bruno Silva, a Corinthians supporter who’s been following the NFL for five years, picked up an unofficial black Eagles jersey near the subway for just 50 reals (about $10). For Silva, who dislikes green because of his club’s rivalry with Palmeiras, the Eagles were the perfect choice since they opted not to wear their green uniforms for the game.
“This is our home,” Silva explained. “We support those who support us.”
Fans Embrace the NFL
Not everyone stuck to local loyalties, however. William Camargo, a 39-year-old Corinthians fan, proudly sported a Packers jersey — a move some would consider taboo in his soccer circles. Yet, for Camargo, Green Bay’s community-owned model felt familiar.
“We like to say that Corinthians belongs to its fans. Green Bay is the same thing,” he said, pointing to his admiration for former Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers, whose jersey was one of the most popular among fans at the game.
The sea of NFL colors didn’t end with Eagles or Packers jerseys either. Fans could be seen wearing gear from teams like the New England Patriots, San Francisco 49ers, Buffalo Bills, and Baltimore Ravens. The diversity of support was a testament to the NFL’s growing global reach.
A Party Beyond the Game
For some, the night was more about the event than the game itself. Narrima Oliveira, 34, donned a long blue dress and came with her boyfriend, eager for the halftime performance by Brazilian pop sensation Anitta.
“This feels like a party,” she said, smiling. “We’re going dancing after this. I’m not a football fan, but I can feel the energy. It’s a big celebration.”
Adding to the festive atmosphere was a special authorization from the Sao Paulo state government to sell beer inside the stadium, a rare move for Brazil, where alcohol sales at sporting events are often banned to curb fan violence.
A Taste of Brazilian Culture
The night wasn’t just about football. Former NFL star Russell Okung, who played 11 seasons in the league, took center stage with a group of capoeira artists, performing the African-Brazilian martial art to the delight of fans. “I love Brazil,” Okung told reporters, adding how thrilled he was that the NFL finally made its way to South America.
Before the game, Olympic heroes like gymnast Rebeca Andrade and skateboarder Rayssa Leal — both Corinthians fans and medalists at the Paris 2024 Games — joined in the festivities, saluting the crowd and further merging the worlds of soccer, football, and Brazilian pride.