A Major League Soccer match took an unexpected turn on Wednesday night when a mischievous raccoon darted onto the field, prompting a temporary pause in play as stadium workers scrambled to corral the furry intruder.
The furry culprit disrupted the game between the Philadelphia Union and New York City FC at Subaru Park, darting across the field and evading the attempts of several stadium workers who tried to capture it using trash cans and other makeshift tools.
A RACCOON ON THE FIELD IN THE MLS! 🦝⚽️ 😂pic.twitter.com/PhUPY6RTTT
— The Comeback (@thecomeback) May 16, 2024
“This is marvelous entertainment,” remarked MLS play-by-play announcer Callum Williams during the game.
“At what point are we just rooting for him,” former MLS player Calen Carr quipped in response.
The MLS public relations account added to the playful spirit, dubbing the raccoon “Raquinho” and highlighting its brief but memorable appearance on the field.
Even MLS commentator Taylor Twellman couldn’t resist the raccoon’s allure, diverting viewers’ attention from another match to witness the unexpected spectacle.
As players from both teams observed from the sidelines, a determined stadium worker finally managed to capture the raccoon by covering it with a trash can.
“They got it,” exclaimed Williams, narrating the capture with excitement. “They got the raccoon!”
Following its capture, the raccoon was safely released off the stadium premises by Hoffman’s, a local pest control company and corporate sponsor of the Union, ensuring its well-being and the resumption of the game without further interruptions.
“Rest assured, our new friend was released unharmed,” assured a team spokesperson.
🦝 update 🚨
Our friend was put in good hands with @HoffmansPest and has been safely released!#DOOP pic.twitter.com/IrPpIDDZAS
— Philadelphia Union (@PhilaUnion) May 16, 2024
