In a dramatic NFC Wild Card showdown, the Green Bay Packers fell to the Philadelphia Eagles 24-21 in a game that went down to the wire. Played at a packed Lincoln Financial Field, the match was marked by thrilling plays and intense competition.
The Packers, led by quarterback Jordan Love, got off to a promising start. Love connected with Jayden Reed for a 25-yard touchdown in the opening quarter, giving Green Bay an early lead. Their defence held strong initially, limiting the Eagles to a field goal on their opening drive, as reported by Yahoo Sports.
However, the Eagles found their rhythm in the second quarter, with Jalen Hurts orchestrating back-to-back scoring drives. A 10-yard rushing touchdown by Saquon Barkley and a deep 35-yard touchdown catch by A.J. Brown gave the Eagles a 17-10 halftime lead.
The Packers regrouped in the second half, relying on a balanced offensive attack. Running back Aaron Jones broke through the Eagles’ defense for a spectacular 40-yard touchdown run, tying the game at 17. The defense then forced a crucial three-and-out, giving Love another opportunity to lead his team down the field. A field goal by Mason Crosby put the Packers ahead 20-17 heading into the fourth quarter.
Philadelphia’s resilience, however, proved too much for Green Bay. Hurts delivered in the clutch, leading a 12-play, 75-yard drive that ended with a touchdown pass to tight end Dallas Goedert. With just seconds remaining, the Eagles sealed their victory with a defensive stop as Zack Baun recovered a crucial fumble, ending the Packers’ final push.
Packers head coach Matt LaFleur reflected on the loss, stating, “We played with heart, but mistakes cost us at critical moments. Credit to the Eagles—they deserved this win.”
The Eagles advance to face the San Francisco 49ers in the divisional round, while the Packers’ season comes to an end despite a valiant effort in Philadelphia.