The USA Vs Mexico 2023 CONCACAF Nations League semifinal was marred with violence as angry players squared against each other in a mass brawl.
USA had wrapped up the game with a convincing 3-0 lead before Mexican fans started formenting trouble with discriminatory chants directed at some USA players.
The game which was expected to be a top-rated clash pitting the two best teams in CONCACAF turned out to be a gruesome spectacle.
The match referee, Ivan Barton, had to halt play as a section of Mexico fans began hurling homophobic vitriols at the players a minute to the end of regulation time.
A public address system had to be used to sound a warning to the erring fans to stop the chants or the game will be suspended during the short break.
Ivan Barton later resumed play with both teams back to their game but it was still a sad tale before the final whistle.
Mexican fans refused to heed the call for decorum as they resumed with louder chants of homophobia. Meanwhile, tempers had already began to flare between the players early in the game before the homophobic chants.
The melee started when Mexico’s Cesar Montes grounded Leon Balogun with a wild strong tackle.
Montes was sent off following the tackle but McKennie overreacted in defense of Balogun prompting Mexican players to crowd him and tore his shirt in the brawl. He was sent off following his reaction and role in the fight that ensued after Monte’s rough challenge on Balogun.
The second incident came late in the game when Zimmerman scored USA’s third goal. Tensions were still brewing between the players.
Near the Mexican corner flag, Sergino Dest and Artega started dragging each other after a spat. They were both sent off by Barton.
Ivan Barton left no stone unturned as he swung into action, brandishing erring players who instigated the melee with red cards.
Also, some erring fans at the stadium had to be forcefully evicted during the incident as the chants nearly grind the game to a halt.
CONCACAF Reacts
CONCACAF have issued a statement condemning the incident while commending the match referee, Ivan Barton, for a swift reaction.
The security operatives who forcefully threw out a number of fans for the unruly act were also commended with the body promising a thorough investigation into the incident and application of relevant sanctions where needed.
“CONCACAF has strongly condemns the discriminatory chanting by some fans during the CNL semi final match between Mexico and the United States.
“Chants heard during the game led to the activation of the anti-discrimination protocol by the match officials. Additionally, security staff ejected several fans for engaging in unacceptable behavior in the stadium.”
“These incidents were extremely disappointing and tarnished what should have been a positive occasion to showcase high-quality football in our region.”
COCACAF is also reportedly gearing up to take up “What’s Wrong is Wrong” campaign to create awareness on the need for an inclusive and equal game.
US Soccer react
According to AS, the US Soccer have confirmed their resolve to mete out requisite punishment for teams indicted of homophobia and discriminatory behaviors with possible sanctions ranging from a two-year ban from playing in the US to a permanent ban for repeated breaches.
USA ran out 3-0 winners after the feisty encounter. Christian Pulisic opened the scoring for USA in the first half and bagged his brace early in the second half to double the lead.
Zimmerman then sealed the win with a late goal as the team qualify for the final to face Canada who edged out Panama 2-0 in the other semifinal.
