So much for friendly! Red Bulls, Club America erupt in wild brawl

A friendly between the New York Red Bulls and Club América descended into a mass brawl late in the match, overshadowing New York’s 1-0 win. The incident matters because players exchanged punches and kicks while spectators threw objects on to the pitch, raising safety concerns at what was meant to be an exhibition.

The confrontation began after a foul near the end line in the 85th minute. Five players were sent off: Red Bulls’ Ronald Donkor and Nehuen Benedetti, and Club América’s Emilio Lara, Ramón Juárez and Dagoberto Espinoza; video appeared to show Red Bulls midfielder Andy Rojas punching Espinoza, though it was unclear whether Rojas faced further punishment. Coach Michael Bradley said the competitive intensity was part of football, while New York ended its season with a win and Club América prepared for its Liga MX Apertura finale against Tigres on 25 November.