The Baltimore Ravens and Dallas Cowboys will meet in Rio de Janeiro on September 27, 2026. This inaugural matchup at Maracana Stadium marks a new chapter in the NFL's South American expansion.

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Expanding the footprint from Sao Paulo to Rio de Janeiro

The NFL is aggressively growing its international presence, moving beyond established markets like London and Mexico City to capture new audiences. This move to Rio de Janeiro follows the league's successful games in Sao Paulo that have been held since 2024. By establishing a presence in Brazil's most iconic sporting city, the league aims to solidify its foothold in the South American market.

As the report indicates, this expansion is part of a broader strategy to globalize American football.. The league is looking to capitalize on the intense enthusiasm found in Brazil, using high-profile matchups to turn casual viewers into a permanent fan base.

A 1-1 deadlock between the Ravens and Cowboys

The Baltimore Ravens and Dallas Cowboys both enter this matchup with 1-1 records, making the contest a pivotal moment for their respective season standings. The game is scheduled for a 4:25 p.m. ET kickoff, placing the action in the heart of the afternoon for North American viewers while providing a prime-time atmosphere in Brazil.

The international stage adds a unique layer of pressure for the players involved. according to the source, the matchup between these two premiere NFL teams carries global implications that extend far beyond the standard regular-season schedule.

Ricky Martin and Pedro Sampaio headline the Maracana halftime

The halftime show at Maracana Stadium is set to be a major cultural event, featuring performances by Pedro Sampaio and Ricky Martin. The entertainment segment is scheduled to begin around 5:45 p.m. ET, blending high-level athletics with global musical talent.

The NFL has a history of attracting massive celebrity interest during international games. while the entertainment element is designed to appel to a global audience, it also serves to heightten the vibrant atmosphere that the league expects at the iconic stadium.

Which Brazilian stars will occupy the Maracana sidelines?

While the report mentions the potential for celebrity sightings, it does not confirm which specific high-profile figures will be in attendance. In previous Brazilian NFL events, fans have seen stars such as Anitta, Luisa Sonza, and Neymar Jr. appearing at the games, but the 2026 guest list remains unverified.

Additionally, the source does not provide clarity on whether the 1-1 records of the Ravens and Cowboys are the result of specific player injuries or other tactical factors. The exact composition of the celebrity guest list and the specific resaons for the teams' current standings remain open questions.

Navigating the $59.99 to $89.99 streaming landscape

The game's broadcast will be available on CBS, with several digital options for viewers who do not have traditional cable.. The report outlines various ways to access the live event depending on a consumer's existing subscriptions:

  • Paramount+: Offers streaming of the Rio game and access to past seasons.
  • Walmart+: Members may be able to access Paramount+ at no additional cost.
  • Cable Alternatives: Various services offer live channels, with prices ranging from $59.99 to $89.99 per month.