There was no “California Love” between LA Galaxy and San Diego FC fans after the final whistle Saturday.
Videos revealed a massive, wild brawl that broke out in the stands at Snapdragon Stadium in San Diego and later into the parking lot following the home team’s 2-1 win over the Galaxy.
The situation required a “sizable police response,” according to the San Diego Union-Tribune, and a police helicopter ordered fans to leave the parking area roughly one hour after the match ended.
The two franchises released a statement condemning the fans’ actions.
“San Diego FC and the LA Galaxy are united in our efforts to foster a safe and welcoming environment for all fans attending our matches. There is no room for violence in our sport,” the statement said. “The incidents that occurred following Saturday’s match at Snapdragon Stadium do not reflect the values of either club and are entirely unacceptable. We urge all fans to support the game we all love with passion and respect, ensuring that every match remains a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone in attendance.”
One two-minute video from the match showed how fans in the upper deck congregated near an exit/entrance area and fists started flying.
There appeared to be a security offer in the area, but that did little to stop the madness.
One scary moment unfolded when a fan, in white clothing, appeared to have some of his upper half go over the top railing, before landing back inside the upper deck.
That fan then got into it with another fan, with the two brawling in the front raw.
Fans later started throwing things at one one another, and the footage showed one fan being on the wrong side of a three-on-one beatdown.
The fight cooled down for a little before fans started going at it again, with some punches and kicks thrown.
“They’re still going at it bro,” one commentator could be heard on the video posted by X user @Saulvgomez_.
What appeared to be security officers seemingly tried to get the fans to exit, but they did not have much initial success.
The melee spilled to the parking lots and X user @dkapp provided a video and photograph of several police cars — the Union-Tribute reported there to be more than a dozen — and a large group of of officers or security officials, which the person detailed as a “large police presence.”
There were no initial reports of arrest or injuries, per the outlet.
This incident marked the second time this year a San Diego FC home game has been marred by an ugly scene among the fans, with spectators also going at it when LAFC visited on March 29.
“Our club values are really clear. There is no place for violence in this sport,” San Diego coach Mikey Varas said. “This is the beautiful game. It’s supposed to be enjoyed. Of course, there’s passion.”
The joint statement said there could be repercussions for some involved fans.
“Both clubs are actively working with Snapdragon Stadium, Major League Soccer, and local law enforcement to conduct a through review of the incidents,” the statement from the teams read.
“Any behavior found to be in violation of the MLS Fan Code of Conduct will result in disciplinary action, which may include stadium ejections and bans.”
