The San Francisco 49ers defeated the Los Angeles Rams 27-7 in an exhibition game at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, drawing a crowd exceeding 100,000 spectators. This marked the first NFL game held in the Asia-Pacific region and was the first of a record nine international games scheduled for 2026.
The 49ers arrived in Melbourne a week prior to the game, allowing them to acclimatize, while the Rams spent just over 24 hours in Australia. 49ers receiver Deebo Samuel suggested the travel disparity played a role, telling Australia's Channel Seven, "I love when they [the Rams] came out and they were booing. We were out here for a week. We enjoyed the city. I don't think you can fly 16 hours and be ready to play."
Game Progression
The game remained close in the first quarter, with the 49ers taking an early field goal. The Rams briefly took the lead in the second quarter with a touchdown run by Kyren Williams. However, the 49ers responded before halftime with a touchdown pass from quarterback Brock Purdy to Demarcus Robinson. Purdy finished the game completing 25 of 34 passes for 205 yards and three touchdowns.
The 49ers extended their lead in the second half with additional touchdowns from receiver Mike Evans and Samuel. A late field goal secured the 27-7 victory.
Rams coach Sean McVay acknowledged the team's performance, stating, "I make no excuses. Whether you want to say it's about travel, whatever. We just weren't good enough. I didn't coach good enough, and we'll look at it and we'll move forward."
The event was enhanced by a halftime performance from the Jonas Brothers. This international game is part of the NFL's strategy to expand its global reach.