SÃO PAULO, Brazil – Justin Herbert and the Los Angeles Chargers defeated the Kansas City Chiefs 27-21 on Thursday, marking their first victory over the Chiefs since September 26, 2021, in Kansas City. The Week 1 matchup,played at Corinthians Arena in São Paulo,Brazil,showcased a strong performance by Herbert and a resilient Chargers team.The Chargers extended their lead to 19-12 when Herbert connected with Keenan Allen for an 11-yard touchdown pass in the third quarter. Allen, who previously played with Herbert and had over 300 receptions together before a brief stint with Chicago, recently returned to Los Angeles last month.
Trailing in the fourth quarter, the Chiefs attempted a comeback.patrick Mahomes threw a 37-yard touchdown pass to Travis Kelce, bringing the score to 20-18. However,the 2-point conversion attempt failed on an incomplete pass to Noah Grey. A subsequent drive resulted in a 27-yard field goal by Harrison Butker, cutting the deficit to 27-21 with 2:34 remaining. Kelce finished the game with one touchdown.
The Chiefs faced challenges throughout the game, entering the contest without receivers Rashee Rice (suspended) and Jalen Royals (knee injury). They lost another receiver, Xavier Worthy, early in the game after a collision with Kelce, resulting in a right shoulder injury.
Chargers linebacker Denzel Perryman did not return after suffering an ankle injury in the third quarter.
The Chiefs will next host the Philadelphia Eagles on September 14 in a Super Bowl rematch. the Chargers will continue their schedule by visiting the Las Vegas Raiders on September 15, beginning a stretch of three consecutive divisional games.
