In what might be the most unexpected sports highlight of the year, an adventurous raccoon interrupted the Major League Soccer game between the Philadelphia Union and New York City FC, leading to a chaotic yet entertaining two-minute pause at Subaru Park in Chester, PA.
As the striped intruder darted across the field, the game took a back seat to the spectacle. “We need to find him a ball because he’s moving very well in the center of midfield,” quipped Callum Williams, the Apple TV commentator. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen anything quite as bizarre as this, particularly given the amount of time he’s remained on the field,” he added, echoing the bewilderment and amusement of the crowd.
The stadium staff sprung into action with trash cans in hand, attempting to capture the elusive critter. Despite their best efforts, the raccoon, displaying remarkable agility and speed, evaded capture multiple times. The audience and commentators alike couldn’t help but root for the nimble creature. “This is marvelous entertainment. Go on, raccoon! You can get away,” Williams exclaimed, urging the raccoon to escape before finally conceding, “Don’t hurt him!” as the resourceful animal was finally contained.
The raccoon, affectionately nicknamed “Raquinho,” earned an unofficial spot in MLS history for the most time spent on the field by a raccoon. Fans took to social media, humorously speculating which team might sign the raccoon for its impressive footwork and acceleration. One YouTube commenter even suggested it had shown more promise than any Manchester United attacker this season.
Philadelphia Union later confirmed in a statement on X that the raccoon was safely captured by a local pest control company and released back into the wild. However, the raccoon’s antics didn’t bring luck to the home team, as Philadelphia lost the game 2-1, leaving them in ninth place in the MLS table after 12 games.