The Cincinnati Bengals defeated the Atlanta Falcons 27-24 at the Santiago Bernabéu stadium in Madrid, marking the NFL’s return to the Spanish capital.
Kevin Stefanski expressed gratitude following the loss, telling MARCA that the treatment from the city and Real Madrid was exceptional.
“The experience was incredible. I mean how we’ve been treated by this country, this city, Real Madrid, I mean, we’ve been very fortunate and blessed,” Stefanski said.
The Falcons coach praised the venue and the supporters in attendance.
“I think this stadium and the whole experience was first-rate, first-class, whatever you want to call it. The fans were unbelievable,” Stefanski said.
Michael Penix Jr. compared the venue to his home turf in Atlanta.
“After the Benz, it’s the best stadium. It’s impressive. It was a gorgeous stadium. It was cool to be able to play there. It is a gorgeous, gorgeous, gorgeous stadium,” Penix said.
Zac Taylor shared similar sentiments after the victory for the Bengals.
“Stunning. The crowd was amazing. Being in that stadium is a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” Taylor said.
Taylor noted only a brief stadium blackout during the contest.
“Other than the blackout during one play, I think everything was very well organized,” Taylor said.
Ja’Marr Chase explored the local food scene during the week.
“What I remember most from when I was here with my family was the food. My family is from New Orleans, so we put a lot of importance on food. So we went to four or five restaurants to make sure,” Chase said.
Tee Higgins focused on the local architecture and landmarks.
“I learned a lot of things, but I can tell you that my favorite thing was the architecture of the buildings. It was really impressive. Then I went to the Temple of Debod and saw the sunset. That was definitely one of my favorite memories of this place,” Higgins said.
Barrett Carter discussed the travel distance for supporters of the franchise.
“It was a lot of fun playing here. I know we have the best fans in the world, but coming to Madrid is a long trip. It was special to see their support and how they showed up; they cheered us on really loud,” Carter said.
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