Police arrested six people during England's 4-2 World Cup win over Croatia, including one for criminal trespass. The Arlington Police Department confirmed that officers also responded to two reports of fights inside the AT&T Stadium on Wednesday, but no arrests were made in those incidents.
Arrest Details
Three individuals were arrested on suspicion of drug offences, one for public intoxication, and another for trademark counterfeiting involving goods valued between $2,500 and $30,000 (£1,889 and £22,679). None of those arrested are British nationals, the police force confirmed.
Security Operations
Police noted that stadium staff typically handle unruly spectators before requesting police assistance, with security often resolving incidents without intervention. Drones monitored crowds, and some officers patrolled the stadium's perimeter on Segways hours before the match. The arrest for criminal trespass followed eyewitness reports that scores of fans breached security and entered without checks. FIFA stated it was unaware of any ticketless fans entering the stadium.
Context of UK Tailgating Laws
Tailgating at football matches in the UK is now a criminal offence after thousands of ticketless fans stormed Wembley ahead of the Euro 2020 final. A review by Baroness Louise Casey found that lives were put at risk during that incident.
England fans celebrated a dominant victory, with captain Harry Kane scoring twice and goals from Jude Bellingham and Marcus Rashford. Over 14 million viewers watched on ITV, peaking at 15.4 million, the broadcaster reported. David Beckham praised the "great performance" and the "togetherness" of Thomas Tuchel's side.
In nearby Dallas, a pub that sold 5,000 beers to England supporters on the eve of the match was forced to close after what the venue described as "the mayhem that descended on us." Social media footage showed the Londoner Pub crowded with fans, and the venue stated its sales did not account for the "destruction of our property and landscaping."
