**Madrid Hosts NFL’s First Game in Spain as Dolphins Take on Commanders at Santiago Bernabéu**
Despite dreary skies and rain, football fans from around the world gathered in Madrid at the Miami Dolphins fan zone in Plaza de España to see Hall of Fame quarterback Dan Marino address the crowd. Large helmets representing both the Dolphins and their Sunday opponent, the Washington Commanders, were displayed against the backdrop of the remarkable Madrid City Hall, facing the iconic Plaza de Cibeles.
At Parque del Retiro, Madrid’s version of New York’s Central Park, an inflatable Dolphins mascot named TD stood by a large lake, with the Monument of King Alfonso XII providing a stunning background. Nearby, the aptly named *Fuente de los Delfines* (Dolphins Fountain) glowed aqua at night, welcoming Dolphins fans from across the globe who planned to celebrate at Collins Irish Tavern, the official pub party venue for the team.
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The Miami Dolphins (3-7) are at the forefront of the NFL’s initiative to expand American football’s reach into Spain — a nation where fútbol (soccer) dominates the sporting landscape. This effort culminates on Sunday with a 9:30 a.m. Eastern Time kickoff against the Washington Commanders (3-7) at the historic Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, home to the legendary soccer club Real Madrid.
Though both teams enter the game with losing records and many injured starters, the match holds immense significance for the NFL’s international growth strategy rather than for the standings. The early game’s result will not impact the playoff picture, as Sunday’s 1 p.m. slate of games concludes before the 4 p.m. playoff graphics are updated.
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Dolphins president and CEO Tom Garfinkel recently told ESPN that the team aims to become the “NFL team of the Spanish-speaking world.” Playing at Bernabéu—one of the world’s most celebrated sporting venues with a record 15 UEFA Champions League titles and 36 La Liga championships—is a unique honor.
“I’d have to assume it’d be like playing baseball in Yankee Stadium,” said Dolphins defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver. “It’s going to be an honor. We certainly won’t take it for granted and hopefully we can carry on the winning tradition that’s been going on there for years.”
Opened in 1947, the Santiago Bernabéu underwent renovations completed in 2024, now featuring a retractable roof — a timely upgrade given Madrid’s rainy weather throughout the weekend.
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Although both teams sit outside playoff contention, the Dolphins come in with some momentum thanks to impressive wins in two of their last three games, including a dominant 30-13 victory over the division-rival Buffalo Bills last Sunday.
If Miami wins as a favorite against a Washington squad missing standout second-year quarterback Jayden Daniels, they will head into the bye week with a 4-7 record. Upcoming games include a home match against the New Orleans Saints (2-8) followed by a road trip against the New York Jets (2-8), presenting a realistic path to improve to 6-7 before the season’s final four games.
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With Daniels sidelined, the Commanders will rely on veteran backup Marcus Mariota, setting up a memorable quarterback matchup in Madrid featuring two Polynesian signal-callers from Hawaii. Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa faces a depleted Washington defense missing cornerbacks Marshon Lattimore and Trey Amos due to injury, as well as Pro Bowl defensive tackle Daron Payne, who is suspended.
Tagovailoa’s connection with wide receiver Jaylen Waddle has strengthened in recent weeks, especially since Miami’s star speedster Tyreek Hill suffered a gruesome knee injury.
“When you’re the No. 1 receiver and the team is depending on you to be that, generally your targets come in critical situations,” said Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel. “In those situations, the team rises or falls based upon your execution of what people are depending on you to execute. Jaylen Waddle has always had the talent to do almost anything on the football field.”
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Running back De’Von Achane could excite the NFL’s growing international fanbase. He ranks fourth in rushing yards per game (78) and third in rushing average (5.4 yards per carry) after amassing 225 yards from scrimmage—including 174 rushing—and two touchdowns against Buffalo last week.
“I did have a great game, but I ain’t the only one out there,” Achane said. “As an offense, I feel like we played great but we just have to keep that same motivation going and make sure it carries on.”
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Adding a unique family storyline to the Madrid matchup, Dolphins left tackle Patrick Paul reunited with his brother, Commanders left guard Chris Paul, for the first time this season.
“It’s been great seeing him out here in Spain,” said Patrick, who shared that they explored Madrid together since arriving on Tuesday. “It’s definitely crazy, me haven’t seeing him in months and the first time we link up is in Spain. Definitely it’s been a blessing just everything with that. It’s been great.”
Throughout the week, Dolphins players, coaches, and executives mingled with Spanish soccer stars, especially from Atlético Madrid, after practicing at Atlético’s home stadium, Estadio Metropolitano.
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Now, with the international spotlight on them, it’s time for the Miami Dolphins to take the field and showcase American football in Madrid. This historic game represents not just a contest between two NFL teams but a significant step forward in growing the sport globally.
https://www.orlandosentinel.com/2025/11/15/dolphins-madrid-takeover-leads-to-nfls-first-game-in-spain-vs-commanders/