As the NFL kicks off its 2024 season, history is set to be made with the first-ever game played in South America. The Philadelphia Eagles and Green Bay Packers are slated to face off on Friday, September 6, at Corinthians Arena in São Paulo, Brazil. This highly anticipated Week 1 matchup, however, is under threat due to severe wildfires ravaging the region, which may force the game to be relocated back to the United States.
The Packers and Eagles share a storied history, with their rivalry dating back to 1933. Over the decades, these two franchises have faced each other 46 times, including three postseason battles. Green Bay holds the upper hand with a 28-18 record in these encounters, yet recent history favors Philadelphia, who have won two of the last three meetings since 2019.
Against the spread, the Packers have been dominant, going 6-3 in the last nine meetings. Additionally, the trend points toward low-scoring affairs, as the under has hit in 11 of the last 15 games between these two teams.
Both teams also boast strong records in season openers. Green Bay has won seven of their last nine, while Philadelphia has gone 7-1 over their last eight. These stats add another layer of intrigue to what promises to be a competitive showdown—if it proceeds as planned.
While the matchup is highly anticipated, the reality on the ground in Brazil is dire. Over 30 cities near São Paulo are battling severe wildfires, which have drastically reduced air quality in the region. The fires, reportedly started by criminals and exacerbated by extreme drought conditions, have raised significant concerns about the safety of holding the game in São Paulo.
Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has acknowledged the severity of the situation, and Brasília’s Environmental Institute has declared the air quality in some areas to be “very unhealthy.” With these conditions, the NFL, local authorities, and health officials are closely monitoring the situation, leaving the game’s location in limbo.
Should the situation in Brazil fail to improve, the NFL may be forced to relocate the game back to the United States. Philadelphia, originally scheduled to be the home team, would likely host the game at Lincoln Financial Field if a move becomes necessary.
This potential change would be a disappointment for fans in South America, who have eagerly awaited this historic game. However, player safety and public health are the top priorities, and a decision is expected in the coming days as the situation develops.
The Packers head into this season opener with momentum. After a 9-8 record last season, Green Bay finished strong, winning six of their last seven games to secure a playoff berth, where they notched a postseason victory. The team also went 2-1 in the preseason, showing promise for the upcoming campaign.
The Eagles, on the other hand, experienced a tale of two halves last season. They burst out of the gate with five straight wins and a 10-1 start but stumbled down the stretch, finishing 11-6 and exiting in the Wild Card round at the hands of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Their preseason ended with a 1-2 record, and they will be looking to start strong once again in 2024.
As the NFL eagerly awaits the kickoff of its first game in South America, all eyes are on the wildfires in Brazil. The fate of this historic matchup between the Packers and Eagles hangs in the balance, with both teams and fans hoping for a resolution that allows the game to proceed safely. Whether in São Paulo or Philadelphia, this Week 1 clash promises to be a thrilling start to the NFL season.
Kickoff is currently scheduled for 8:15 p.m. ET on Friday, September 6, and will be broadcast live on Peacock. Stay tuned for updates as the situation develops.
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