September 5, 2025 – São Paulo, Brazil
A memorable showdown kicked off the 2025 NFL season as the Los Angeles Chargers earned a statement victory over the Kansas City Chiefs, defeating them 27–21 in the international opener at Arena Corinthians in São Paulo. Arrowhead PrideESPN.com+1
1. Herbert Shines, Mahomes Struggles to Keep Up
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Justin Herbert was outstanding, throwing for 318 yards and three touchdowns, completing 25 of 34 passes. He also added a game-clinching scramble on third-and-14 in the closing minutes. Arrowhead PrideESPN.com+1
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Patrick Mahomes battled through pressure, finishing with 258 passing yards, one passing touchdown, and a rushing touchdown. However, the Chiefs’ red-zone offense fell short more than once. Arrowhead PrideESPN.com
2. How the Game Unfolded: Quarter-by-Quarter Breakdown
First Quarter
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The Chargers struck first, with Herbert connecting with Quentin Johnston on a 5-yard touchdown pass to make it 7–0. ESPN.com
Second Quarter
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Cameron Dicker extended LA’s lead with a 39-yard field goal.
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Harrison Butker responded for Kansas City with a 35-yarder.
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Dicker added another 36-yard field goal to put the Chargers up 13–3.
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Butker capped the half with a 59-yard field goal, narrowing the gap to 13–6 heading into halftime. ESPN.com
Third Quarter
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Mahomes scrambled for an 11-yard rushing touchdown, but Butker's extra point missed, making it 13–12.
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On the ensuing drive, Herbert found Keenan Allen for an 11-yard touchdown—the Chargers regained control at 20–12. ESPN.com
Fourth Quarter
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Mahomes delivered a 37-yard touchdown to Travis Kelce, followed by a failed two-point conversion. Score: 20–18. New York PostESPN.com
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But Herbert answered with a 23-yard touchdown to Johnston, pushing the lead to 27–18 with just over five minutes left.
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Despite pulling within six thanks to a 27-yard field goal by Butker, the Chiefs couldn't get closer. Herbert sealed the game with a late third-and-14 run, and the Chargers ran out the clock. ESPN.comArrowhead Pride
3. Key Performers and Storylines
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Chargers' Stars:
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Justin Herbert earned praise for his poise and clutch performance.
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Quentin Johnston stood out with two critical touchdown receptions.
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Offensive line held strong, especially notable amid missing LT Rashawn Slater. Bolts From The Blue
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Defensive tackle Teair Tart and linebacker Daiyan Henley also made significant plays on defense. Bolts From The Blue
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Chiefs’ Highlights:
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Mahomes’ effort kept them competitive, but early penalties (10 infractions for 71 yards) and missed opportunities tilted the game. Arrowhead PrideESPN.com
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Travis Kelce electrified the crowd with a 37-yard TD and even danced post-score. New York PostPeople.com
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Xavier Worthy exited early with a shoulder injury after colliding with Kelce. Arrowhead PrideNew York Post
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4. What This Win Means
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The victory snapped a seven-game losing streak to the Chiefs and marked the Chargers’ first win over Kansas City since 2021. Wikipedia+1ESPN.com
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Head coach Jim Harbaugh reflected on the moment’s magnitude, calling September 5th “monumental” and “legendary Charger lore.” ESPN.com
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This early season win gives Los Angeles a strong start at 1–0 and an early edge in the AFC West standings. WikipediaESPN.com
5. Looking Ahead
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Chiefs: Look to bounce back in Week 2 as they host the defending Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles on September 14. New York PostWikipedia
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Chargers: Next up is a road matchup against the Las Vegas Raiders on September 15. Wikipedia
Final Thoughts
What a way to kick off the NFL season! The Chargers came to play—Herbert was sharp, Johnston made the big catches, and the team executed when it mattered. The Chiefs, usually the AFC power, looked a step behind. As Week 2 looms, both teams have a clear picture of where they stand: one with momentum, the other with questions to answer.
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