Sports News of Friday, 20 June 2025

Source: www.ghanaweb.com

2025 FIFA Club World Cup: Esperance fan arrested in US as pre-match tensions explode

Police escorting the Esperance fan (L) after the arrest Police escorting the Esperance fan (L) after the arrest

Tensions have erupted in the United States just hours before Esperance de Tunis face Los Angeles FC in a high-stakes FIFA Club World Cup group stage clash.

In a video shared by prominent African football journalist Micky Jnr, Esperance fans are seen rallying through town, waving flags and engaging in their usual pre-match rituals.

But the atmosphere quickly shifted when US police swooped in, arresting one supporter in a moment that has since gone viral online.

The fan was handcuffed and taken away, with little clarity on what triggered the incident. Early reports suggest he may have breached a local pre-match regulation.

The dramatic scene adds a layer of tension to what is already a crucial fixture for both teams.

Esperance, representing Tunisia, are still chasing their first points in the tournament after a 2-0 loss to Brazilian giants Flamengo in their opening match.

Los Angeles FC are in the same position, having also suffered a 2-0 defeat, theirs at the hands of Premier League powerhouse Chelsea.

Now, both sides face off at 10 pm on Friday, June 20, 2025, in a do-or-die encounter that could decide their fate in the group. But for Esperance, the build-up to the game has been anything but smooth.

Watch the video of his arrest below:



FKA/EB

Meanwhile, watch the latest edition of Sports Check with former Hearts of Oak midfielder Frederick Ansah Botchway