The Irvine Police Department has launched an investigation into a post-game brawl that took place at the Great Park on Saturday, Oct. 20. The incident, which was captured on cellphone video, involved players from the Irvine-based Zeta FC and the Los Angeles-based Club Garrafones. 

In a post with a short video clip of the incident, the Irvine Police Department asked the public to come forward with any information regarding anyone involved.

“On Saturday night, a fight occurred after a soccer game ended at the Great Park. The match was between Club Garrafones from South Los Angeles and Irvine Zeta FC II. Both teams are part of the United Premier Soccer League, which is a professional development league,” the post read. “We responded to the incident, assisted injured people, and began investigating. Anyone with tips, photos, or videos is asked to call (949) 724-7104 or email [email protected].”

In response to Irvine Weekly’s request for the incident report, Sergeant Karies Davies, Public Information Officer for the Irvine Police Department, said that a report is not available at this time due to the open investigation.

While it is unclear how the brawl at the Great Park started, a statement posted to the Zetas FC Instagram page claims that incident caused injuries to both Zeta FC players, and a parent of a Zeta FC player. 

“We are deeply disturbed by the unfortunate incident that took place during a soccer game involving our Irvine Zeta FC Team II on Oct 21, 2023. Our team, players, and fans were subjected to an attack by a group of adults, which is entirely contrary to the values of sportsmanship and respect we hold dear,” the statement read. “One of our players was subjected to a senseless act of violence, resulting in a broken nose. In the midst of this conflict, another player’s dad was also injured. We are outraged and deeply concerned about the safety and well-being of our players and their families.”

Club Garrafones has not publicly addressed the incident on its Facebook or Instagram accounts. A recent post on the club’s Instagram page indicate the club joined the United Premier Soccer League in August.

UPSL addressed the incident in a statement emphasizing the club faces an immediate ban from the league.  

“Club Garrafones has been removed from the UPSL and a lifetime ban has been put in place for the organization and its coaching staff,” it said in a statement.

Advertising disclosure: We may receive compensation for some of the links in our stories. Thank you for supporting Irvine Weekly and our advertisers.