Dolphins’ European Struggles: A Chance for Redemption Against Commanders
The Miami Dolphins are gearing up for their seventh international matchup as they prepare to face the Washington Commanders in Madrid, Spain. This game marks a historic moment, as it will be the inaugural NFL regular season game held in Spain.
The Weight of History
While the significance of this matchup is undeniable, it’s essential to recognize the Dolphins’ less-than-stellar track record in Europe. With a 1-5 record in international contests, Miami’s struggles abroad have been pronounced. Only the Jacksonville Jaguars, with their seven losses, have a worse record in such games. The Dolphins will, after this week, have played the second-most games in Europe, trailing the Jaguars by just a few.
The upcoming game in Spain continues the Dolphins’ recent trend of playing internationally, having previously faced off in Germany in 2023 and England in 2021. Their lone victory outside of the United States came in 2014 when they defeated the Oakland Raiders 38-14 during their second European outing.
A Look Back at Past Performances
To fully appreciate the context of this upcoming game, it’s helpful to reflect on the Dolphins’ history in Europe:
2007 — London, England (Wembley Stadium): This game was the first ever regular season matchup outside the U.S., but it was a tough outing for the Dolphins. They fell to the New York Giants 13-10, with the Dolphins unable to score until late in the game.
2014 — London, England (Wembley Stadium): A bright spot in their European journey, the Dolphins showcased their offensive prowess, scoring 38 unanswered points after an early deficit. This game ultimately led to the firing of Raiders coach Dennis Allen.
2015 — London, England (Wembley Stadium): The Dolphins faced the New York Jets, but the game turned into a disappointing outing, resulting in a 27-14 loss that sealed the fate of head coach Joe Philbin.
2017 — London, England (Wembley Stadium): This game was equally grim, with the Dolphins being shut out by the New Orleans Saints 20-0. Jay Cutler’s offense struggled mightily, failing to capitalize on early opportunities.
2021 — London, England (Tottenham Hotspur Stadium): A heartbreaking loss against the Jacksonville Jaguars marked a new chapter in Dolphins history. After a late-game collapse, the Dolphins fell 23-20, deepening their losing streak at that time.
2023 — Frankfurt, Germany (Deutsche Bank Park): The Dolphins again faced disappointment, losing 21-14 to the Kansas City Chiefs despite outgaining them. A rough first half proved too much to overcome, culminating in a turnover on downs that sealed their fate.
Looking Ahead to Madrid
As the Dolphins prepare for the Commanders, they face not only the weight of their past performances but also the challenge of overcoming the mental hurdles that have accompanied their European games. A win would not only snap their curse but also mark a watershed moment in their international journey.
The upcoming contest in Spain is more than just a game; it’s a chance for the Dolphins to rewrite their narrative abroad. With their eyes set on redemption, Miami hopes to change the course of their European history and bring home a victory that counts just as much as any game played on U.S. soil.
