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
