VIDEO: Raccoon! MLS match gets unusual pitch invader as cute critter interrupts NYCFC match against Philadelphia Union

The raccoon, which has since been affectionately dubbed "Raquinho," made a bold appearance around the 21st minute, setting up camp in the NYCFC penalty area. Despite the ongoing action at the other end of the field, Raquinho seemed unfazed by the intensity of the game as it strolled around nonchalantly - much to the amusement of the spectators.

According to MLS Communications, Raquinho's 161-second cameo is an unofficial record for the longest time a raccoon has spent on an MLS field. The furry interloper showcased some impressive agility, evading multiple staffers armed with trash cans who attempted to corral it. Eventually, Raquinho was gently trapped in a trash can and removed from the field, much to the relief of the players.

This isn't the first time animals have interrupted a Union game. In March 2023, a dog made headlines by running onto the field during a CONCACAF Champions League match between Philadelphia and Salvadoran club Alianza. Interestingly, despite these animal intrusions, the Union are not traditionally associated with raccoons — that distinction belongs to their mid-Atlantic rivals, D.C. United.

As for the match itself, NYCFC remained unfazed by the raccoon's antics and managed to secure a 2-1 victory over the Union. This win bolstered NYCFC's record to 6-2-5, placing them fourth in the Eastern Conference standings. Meanwhile, the Union's home loss dropped them to a 3-5-4 record, relegating them to ninth place in the East.

The presence of Raquinho added a fun and unforgettable twist to the plot. Later, the Philadelphia Union took to their official X account to reassure fans that Raquinho was safely handled by a pest control company and released back into the wild. Philadelphia will return to Subaru Park on May 30 against Toronto after playing two away fixtures against New England and Charlotte respectively.