NASHVILLE, TN – 18 people were detained and issued citations for trespassing during Tuesday night’s Leagues Cup match between Nashville SC and Club América, according to a press release from the Metro Nashville Police Department.
“Eighteen persons, 11 adults and 7 juveniles, were detained and cited for trespassing Tuesday night at Geodis Park after they ran onto the field near the end of the match between Nashville Soccer Club and Club America in Leagues Cup competition,” said Metro PD in a statement issued Wednesday morning.
“The 18 were mostly, if not all, fans of visiting Club America. The running onto the field took place during the penalty kick phase near the end of the match. The juveniles range in age from 13 to 17. The adults range in age from 23 to 56. It is the policy of Geodis Park to seek the MNPD’s assistance in prosecuting fans who come onto the field during matches.”
Club América thought they had won the match in the penalty shootout when goalkeeper Luis Malagón saved Jack Maher’s spot kick. After the save fans began to rush the field, mostly children at first. Security quickly became overwhelmed, though, as fans continued to run onto the field.
After over 10 minutes of delay and a security guard being stretchered off the field with an apparent knee injury, the players were eventually allowed to resume play, with Nashville ultimately winning the shootout and advancing to the quarterfinals.
The chaos continued after the match. After winning the shootout in front of the traveling supporters’ section, Nashville were pelted with drinks and other objects on their way off the field.
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