It’s been a few months since an unlikely guest stole the spotlight at a Major League Soccer game, cementing itself in the minds of fans and players alike. On that lively night back in May, during a match between the Philadelphia Union and New York City FC, a raccoon burst onto the field. Affectionately dubbed “Raquinho” by the MLS Twitter account—a spin on soccer legend Ronaldhino—the raccoon dashed across the pitch with unexpected agility, interrupting the game and momentarily turning a soccer match into a spectacle of its own.
For 161 unforgettable seconds, Raquinho outpaced the stadium staff armed with trash cans and boards, instantly becoming a fan sensation. As workers scrambled to capture the wily raccoon, the crowd and commentators supplied cheers and laughter to the soundtrack of the lighthearted chase.
A Play-By-Play Like No Other
Commentators didn’t waste a second in shifting their focus from soccer to Raquinho’s antics, delivering a running commentary that only fueled the fans’ excitement. “We need to find him a ball because he’s moving very well in the center of midfield,” quipped Apple TV+ broadcaster Callum Williams. Even former MLS player Calen Carr couldn’t help but join in, asking, “At what point are we just rooting for him?”
As Raquinho dashed from one end of the field to the other, he masterfully dodged several attempts by stadium workers to contain him. With each near-capture, fans roared louder, showing their support for the unexpected underdog. At last, in a well-coordinated maneuver, workers managed to trap the raccoon by sandwiching him between two trash cans. The crowd cheered as he was safely carried off the field, allowing the game to resume.
Raquinho’s Newfound Fame
While Raquinho’s field time was brief, his impact was immediate and widespread. Social media lit up with clips, memes, and posts celebrating his brief career as an MLS pitch invader. Even MLS commentator Taylor Twellman, who was calling an entirely separate game, urged viewers to switch over to catch the raccoon’s antics. The MLS Twitter account joined in on the fun, joking that Raquinho’s 161 seconds set a new “MLS record” for raccoon time on pitch.
The unexpected guest quickly earned a fanbase, with social media users humorously demanding that Raquinho be signed by a team. In one post, MLS teased, “SIGN HIM NOW,” acknowledging the raccoon’s impressive evasive skills and his instant popularity among viewers.
A Safe Return to the Wild
So, what happened to Raquinho after his unforgettable run? The Philadelphia Union confirmed that he was safely escorted off the stadium grounds by Hoffman’s Exterminating, a local pest control service and Union sponsor. The company ensured the raccoon was unharmed during the capture and later released him back into the wild along the Delaware River. A Union spokesperson reassured fans, saying, “Rest assured, our new friend was released unharmed,” putting any concerns for Raquinho’s safety to rest.
What’s on the Cards for Raquinho?
Though Raquinho’s appearance was fleeting, it didn’t take long for his fame to transcend social media. Trading card company Topps commemorated the event by creating a limited-edition Raquinho card, giving fans the chance to own a memento of his brief but beloved career. Priced at $8.99, the card immortalizes Raquinho’s dash across Subaru Park, a nod to the delightful moments that often arise in sports, unplanned and unrepeatable.
Fans have since embraced Raquinho as a bit of MLS folklore, relishing the humor and spontaneity he brought to the game. In a league often dominated by star players, this raccoon’s moment in the spotlight was a refreshing surprise. Even though his fame may eventually fade, for now, he’s a reminder that the most unexpected moments can leave the longest-lasting memories.
More Than a Pitch Invader
Though he’s now back in the wild, Raquinho remains an unlikely folk hero in Philadelphia as his story continues to circulate among fans and in MLS circles. His spirited dash across the field was a rare interruption that brought together players, staff, and fans in a shared moment of joy. Whether through social media clips or a trading card, Raquinho’s 161 seconds of fame will endure as one of those oddball stories that capture the heart and humor of live sports.
Sources:
- CBC News on YouTube: #TheMoment a raccoon interrupted an MLS game
- USA Today: MLS raccoon update: Was it safely released after stealing the show at the game in Philadelphia?
- NBC News: Raccoon invades field and dodges trash can-wielding officials at MLS game
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