NFL confirms Falcons to face Bengals in Madrid for Week 9
The Atlanta Falcons have been assigned the Cincinnati Bengals as their opponent for the upcoming NFL International Series match in Spain, marking the franchise’s first appearance in the country.
The National Football League confirmed on Tuesday that the Atlanta Falcons will face the Cincinnati Bengals in Madrid, solidifying the opponent for the team’s scheduled appearance in the NFL International Series. The fixture is set for Week 9 on November 8, with kick-off scheduled for 9:30 a.m. ET at the Bernabéu Stadium.
The match represents a significant milestone for the franchise, serving as its first game in Spain and its fifth contest played outside of the United States. The Falcons previously announced their participation in the Madrid event in March, selecting the Bernabéu Stadium, home to Real Madrid, as the venue for the international excursion.
This international series follows a history of overseas play for the Falcons, including previous fixtures in London in 2014, 2021, and 2023, as well as a referenced appearance in Berlin in 2025. The team’s expansion into global markets continues to test the logistical and competitive frameworks of the league’s international strategy.
The upcoming game also carries narrative weight regarding the Falcons’ roster composition, particularly at the quarterback position. Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa joined Atlanta earlier this season following the release of Kirk Cousins. Tagovailoa previously defeated the Washington Commanders in Madrid last season, giving him a chance to maintain a perfect record on Spanish soil.
Tagovailoa is currently competing with Michael Penix Jr. for the starting quarterback role. Penix began the previous season as the starter before suffering an injury. The Falcons are expected to release their full season schedule on Thursday, providing further details on the remainder of their domestic and international commitments.
