Friendly—but not too friendly: Slaps fly, six players are ejected

The match between the New York Red Bulls and Club América was incredibly tense: the two teams faced off in a friendly match that turned into a real battle. The final tally was six red cards, three for each side.

It all started with a spat between Ronald Donkor and Miguel Borja: following a tackle, the América forward shoved his opponent, who didn’t take it well, and then the situation escalated. Other players joined the scuffle, and the referee lost control. It took several minutes to calm things down, and in the end, the referee handed out six red cards—three for each side.

“The team played well and we won—that was the most important thing. Incidents involving the referee and moments of tension are things that can happen and are part of soccer. I think everything should stay on the field. Now let’s look ahead,” said Rafael Mosquera after the match.

The New York Red Bulls secured the victory thanks to a goal by Nehuén Benedetti, who skillfully capitalized on a loose save by América goalkeeper Rodolfo Cota. “I think everyone, without exception, gave their all, playing with great commitment and intensity. I also saw a lot of positive things in terms of our play,” said New York Red Bulls captain Michael Bradley.

The American coach is known in Italy for having played for Chievo (2011–2012) and Roma (2012–2014). After his stint in the capital, Bradley ended his playing career in Toronto.