Dallas‑area fans can take pride in the Cowboys’ professional approach as the team lands in Rio de Janeiro for its inaugural international game against the Baltimore Ravens. Coach Brian Schottenheimer, in his second year with the club, framed the trip as a “business trip,” reminding players that the 5,200‑mile journey demands focus and discipline.
Practice Sessions Emphasize Discipline
Practicing at Flamengo’s training grounds, located about 26 miles west of the iconic Sugarloaf Mountain, the Cowboys spent the day running drills and fine‑tuning their game plan. Schottenheimer told the squad early on that there would be no free time for typical tourist activities. “You’re not going to have the free time to do what you’d normally do,” he said, underscoring the need to stay on task.
Quarterback Dak Prescott, playing his first international game, echoed the coach’s sentiment. While he enjoyed a brief pool break and sampled local steak, he stressed that the team’s priority is winning. “We want to be the aggressors and bring our best game to them,” Prescott said, adding that the extra day before kickoff allows the team to “massage the game plan” and rest fully.
Ravens Also Focus on Preparation
Opposing coach Jesse Minter, who previously coordinated the Los Angeles Chargers’ defense, also arrived at a local soccer club—Botafogo—for practice. Minter, familiar with Brazil from a prior stint, noted that fans in Rio are enthusiastic regardless of team allegiance, creating a lively atmosphere for both squads.
Both teams arrived Friday after roughly ten‑hour flights, giving them a short window to acclimate before the Sunday showdown, which marks the ninth international contest on the NFL schedule this season.
Local Interest for Texas Fans
For Dallas supporters, the trip highlights the Cowboys’ growing national profile while maintaining a clear focus on performance. Prescott expressed a personal desire to return to Brazil as a tourist, hoping to glimpse the Christ the Redeemer statue on the way to the game. Yet his primary goal remains simple: “What we are looking for is a win.”
The NFL has held games in Brazil since 2024, previously using the 48,000‑seat NeoQuimica Arena in São Paulo. This Rio matchup offers a fresh backdrop, and tickets remain available for fans eager to see the Cowboys and Ravens play abroad.
What This Means for Dallas
While the game is overseas, the Cowboys’ disciplined approach reflects the franchise’s commitment to excellence—a message that resonates with the Dallas community. By treating the trip as a professional assignment rather than a vacation, the team sets a standard for dedication that local athletes and fans can admire.
Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.
