(foto: Posnetek zaslona)
A viral video showed armed security officers positioned above the MetLife Stadium stands during the World Cup final between Spain and Argentina.
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More than 80,000 supporters watched Spain defeat Argentina in the World Cup final, but few noticed the armed security teams positioned high above their seats.
A video recorded inside MetLife Stadium has spread across social media. The footage shows officers carrying precision rifles while monitoring the venue from elevated platforms above the stands.
The video surprised many viewers, although such teams form a standard part of security operations surrounding appearances by the president of the United States.
Donald Trump attended the final in New Jersey, triggering an extensive protection plan led by the US Secret Service.
The American president arrived aboard Marine One, which flew over the stadium before landing near the venue. His presence resulted in stricter security checks, restricted areas and long queues outside the stadium.
The author of the viral video wrote: “When you find out that elite snipers were stationed around the stadium during the Spain-Argentina match. Apparently, this is completely normal in the United States.”
Officials did not publicly identify the officers shown in the footage. Reports described them as police or Secret Service counter-sniper personnel assigned to monitor the stadium and its surroundings.
Counter-sniper teams use high positions to maintain a clear view of large public spaces and nearby buildings. Their presence also helps security officials identify potential threats from outside the main spectator areas.
The wider operation included federal agents, local police, intelligence personnel, explosive detection teams and officers assigned to access points throughout the venue.
Fighter jets also supported the air-security operation around the final, while temporary flight restrictions limited activity above the stadium.
Most spectators remained unaware of the armed officers during the match. The teams stayed above the main seating areas and away from normal supporter routes.
The strict measures reflected Trump’s attendance rather than a specific threat connected with Spain, Argentina or the tournament. No major security incident occurred during the final.
Spain won the match 1-0 after extra time through Ferran Torres’ goal in the 106th minute. The victory delivered the country its second men’s World Cup title.
The viral footage has now shown supporters another side of the event. While the players competed on the pitch and thousands watched from the stands, security teams observed the entire stadium from above.