Minnesota Vikings fall to Pittsburgh Steelers in international matchup in Dublin

In a thrilling "Sunday Morning Football" game from Croke Park Stadium in Dublin, Ireland—part of the NFL's global expansion—the Pittsburgh Steelers prevailed over the Minnesota Vikings in a 24-21 thriller. This international game, played in a pro-Steelers atmosphere before 74,512 spectators, saw Pittsburgh rally in the first half and withstand a furious Vikings comeback in the final quarter, improving their record to 3-1 while Minnesota falls to 2-2.
Game Summary:

First Quarter: The Steelers took the lead with a field goal by Chris Boswell (3-0), but the Vikings responded with a field goal of their own, tying the score at 3-3. Pittsburgh dominated possession, but the Vikings defense, led by Jonathan Greenard, limited the Steelers' rushing attack.

Second Quarter: Pittsburgh's offense finally got going late in the quarter: Kenneth Gainwell scored a 4-yard rushing touchdown (7-3), followed by a DeShon Elliott interception of Carson Wentz that set up another score. Aaron Rodgers connected with D.K. Metcalf for an 80-yard touchdown pass (14-6 at halftime).

Third Quarter: The Steelers extended their lead with another Gainwell touchdown (21-6), following a T.J. Watt interception—tipped by Cam Heyward—that set up a 35-yard drive. Minnesota fought back with a field goal, but Pittsburgh controlled the pace.

Fourth Quarter: The Vikings mounted an epic comeback: a 99-yard drive culminated in a touchdown by Zavier Scott (21-14), and then Wentz found Jalen Nailor for another touchdown and a two-point conversion (24-21). However, the Pittsburgh defense, with Isaiah Rodgers blocking a key field goal, sealed the victory in the final minutes. Game Highlights:

Pittsburgh Steelers (3-1): Aaron Rodgers, in his first international victory, completed 18 of 22 passes for 200 yards and a TD, showing pinpoint accuracy despite an interception. Kenneth Gainwell shined with two rushing TDs and 85 yards on 16 carries, while the defense—with two interceptions (Elliott and Watt)—forced three turnovers and limited Minnesota to 57 rushing yards. DK Metcalf was a highlight with an 80-yard reception. "Renegade" played in the final quarter, energizing the crowd and the defense.

Minnesota Vikings (2-2): Carson Wentz threw for 30 of 46 for 350 yards, two TDs and two INTs, leading the comeback with clutch plays like the 99-yard drive. Jordan Mason contributed 72 rushing yards, and receivers like Scott (85 yards, TD) and Nailor kept hope alive. However, the two picks and penalties (like roughing the passer) proved costly. Rookie J.J. McCarthy saw limited action in wild snaps.

Key Moment: T.J. Watt's interception in the third quarter, his third of the season, set up Gainwell's TD and a 15-point lead. Isaiah Rodgers' field goal block at the end prevented overtime, showcasing his elite PFF grade.

Divisional Context:

This was the first NFL game in Ireland for both teams, with the Steelers honoring their Rooney family roots (the ownership family has Irish heritage). Pittsburgh, after a bye in Week 5, hosts Cleveland in Week 6; Minnesota faces a tough schedule, returning to U.S. Bank Stadium vs. Chicago on October 19. Historically, the Steelers lead 9-10 vs. the Vikings, and Rodgers is now 18-12-1 lifetime against them. Conclusion: A nail-biter that highlighted Pittsburgh's resilience: an opportunistic offense and an elite defense under Mike Tomlin. The Vikings showed heart in their comeback, but costly mistakes cost them the victory on Irish soil.