The NFL’s choice to bring the Carolina Panthers and New York Giants to Munich stirred up a mix of excitement and confusion among fans. On one hand, German fans at Allianz Arena got a chance to experience live American football, a rare treat.
On the other, U.S. fans were left wondering why two struggling teams with 2-7 records were selected for the international showcase.
Before kickoff, the performance of the U.S. National Anthem on violin was one memorable moment. While some fans embraced the unique twist, calling it “the highlight of the night,” others questioned if the anthem alone could carry an otherwise uninspiring game.
What a beautiful and regal playing of our #NationalAnthem on the violin! #NFLinGermany pic.twitter.com/kwFzO6s9tY
— Connie Carberg (@ConnieScouts) November 10, 2024
On the field, Panthers quarterback Bryce Young showed some sparks with a touchdown pass to rookie tight end Ja’Tavion Sanders, putting the Giants on the back foot early. Mistakes piled up for both sides, as a series of penalties on the Panthers and a missed field goal by the Giants kept tensions high without raising the level of play.
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Throughout the game, fans on social media made light of the situation. “Dear Germany—this isn’t our best show,” one user joked, summing up the sentiment of many. The atmosphere remained charged in Munich, but the game exposed the challenges of selling American football internationally when the teams involved aren’t top performers.