Madrid, Spain – The NFL’s first-ever regular-season game in Spain saw the Miami Dolphins edge the Washington Commanders 16–13 in a dramatic overtime finish at Bernabéu Stadium. Dolphins cornerback Jack Jones intercepted Washington quarterback Marcus Mariota on the first play of overtime, setting up Riley Patterson’s game-winning field goal just moments later. The victory marked Miami’s third win in four games and highlighted a historic milestone for the franchise on the international stage.

In line with its mandate to advance Uganda’s global engagement through sports diplomacy, the Public Diplomacy Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs actively participated in and attended the NFL livestream watch party held at the Excelsis Garden Hotel on Kisoota Road, Kisasi. The department’s involvement underscored its continued commitment to supporting international sports initiatives that foster cultural exchange, people-to-people connections, and new opportunities for Ugandan youth.

Mr. Okeng, the event host, proprietor, and a key local promoter of American football, expressed gratitude for the Ministry’s presence and highlighted the importance of such support in elevating the sport’s visibility in Uganda. He reiterated his ambition to nurture the sport among young Ugandans and emphasized its potential economic benefits. Operating on an annual budget of just ten million shillings, he remains determined to introduce the game in schools, an initiative he believes could inspire future Olympic-level athletes.

Robert Jjagwe, a member of the Uganda Olympic Committee who attended the event, commended Okeng’s resilience and passion. Recognizing the Public Diplomacy Department’s role in spotlighting the sport, he pledged to advocate for increased funding for the Uganda NFL team as the nation begins preparations for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.

The watch party also captured the excitement of the game’s halftime show, featuring acclaimed artists Daddy Yankee and Bizarrap. This Spain matchup concluded the NFL’s seventh and final international game of the season, with the league set to continue expanding its global footprint during next year’s event in Mexico City.