FC Cincinnati and Columbus Crew players were on the verge of a physical altercation Saturday night in the tunnel that connects the locker rooms.
Social media footage showed coaches, security, and police intervening as tensions flared between the players after the Crew’s 2-1 victory over Cincinnati.
The drama began towards the end of the match when Cincinnati midfielder Gerardo Valenzuela attempted a rough tackle on Crew forward Taja Havrun, resulting in Havrun falling to the ground after being struck on the leg.
This foul instigated a confrontation on the field, leading to Valenzuela receiving a red card for violent behavior.
However, the atmosphere remained tense even after the game concluded, as Columbus defender Mohamed Farsi and captain Sean Zawadzki had to be restrained by teammates and coaches from rushing into the visiting team’s area.
Things further escalated when players from both sides exchanged heated words while officials tried to keep order, as captured by reporter Adam King from 10TV WBNS.
Ultimately, calm was restored, and both squads dispersed. One player remarked that “nothing really happened in the tunnel,” emphasizing a desire to project a positive image for young fans, while also noting the necessity of protecting players from reckless plays.
Crew head coach Laurent Courtois commented on the situation, admitting that “something foolish occurred and the players got a bit carried away” during the aftermath of the match.
This game marked their second encounter since the MLS season resumed following the World Cup interruption.
