An unfortunate incident appeared to overshadow NYCFC's 3-2 victory over FC Cincinnati on Wednesday night.
The game, held at Red Bull Arena in Harrison, New Jersey, was forced by center official Guido Gonzalez Jr. to be called off late in the game due to “hateful language” from fans inside the venue. According to the Cincinnati Enquirer.
According to FC Cincinnati's team beat reporterbelieved the homophobic chants came from NYCFC supporters and were directed at midfielder Luciano Acosta.
He also posted that fans had started chanting “another curse word” at FC Cincinnati players.
The delay, which began around the 86th minute, ended after the referee conferred with the sidelines of both teams.
The chant was then announced to the Red Bull Arena crowd.
Play resumed in the 90th minute.
Major League Soccer confirmed the incident in a statement released late Wednesday night.
“Major League Soccer is aware of an incident during tonight's game between New York City FC and FC Cincinnati in which a spectator directed a homophobic slur at a player,” the league said in a statement. “MLS unequivocally condemns hate speech of any kind and does not tolerate abusive, derogatory, or threatening comments towards players, clubs, or league officials. MLS works closely with club and stadium officials. and are trying to identify those involved.
“Hate and bigotry have no place in our sport, community or society at large.”
In a statement, FC Cincinnati praised game officials for their quick action during the incident.
“The club strongly condemns this behavior by NYCFC fans and will always stand by and support our players,” the team said in a statement. “The club commends the players and officials on the field for their swift action. Abuse has no place on or off the field, in our league, or in our community.”
NYCFC has yet to publicly comment on the incident.
