Rogue Raccoon Causes 'Record-Setting' Delay During MLS Match

A raccoon interrupted a match between NYCFC and the Philadelphia Union.

May 15, 2024; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; A raccoon runs on the field in the first half between / Kyle Ross-USA TODAY Sports

Apparently, raccoons like soccer too. On Wednesday night, the Philadelphia Union and New York City FC had their game delayed while a raccoon ran around on the field, avoiding stadium staff that attempted to corral it. According to Major League Soccer, the impressively athletic trash panda set an unofficial record.

Here's video of the raccoon's performance, be sure to appreciate the hesitation moves and cutbacks.

🚨 SIGN HIM NOW! 🦝 pic.twitter.com/rX1QGoJygg

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) May 16, 2024

Since dubbed "Raquinho," the raccoon was on the field for 161 seconds which, according to MLS Communications, is an unofficial record for a raccon on the field in MLS history.

🚨 SIGN HIM NOW! 🦝 pic.twitter.com/rX1QGoJygg

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) May 16, 2024

Everyone loves a pitch invader, but only when it's the furry kind. Who doesn't love stuff like this?

NYCFC was unbothered by the raccoon's performance and snagged a 2-1 win over Union. The win improved the team's record to 6-2-5 and put them in fourth place in the Eastern Conference. Meanwhile, Philadelphia is headed in the other direction, with the home loss dropping the Union to 3-5-4. They currently sit in ninth place in the East.

Raquinho was certainly not a rally raccoon for Philadelphia, but the club should embrace it anyway. Sell t-shirts, make a bobblehead and celebrate the moment that was. It'll help fans forget about Wednesday night's loss.