A shocking scene unfolded. Crystal Palace forward Jean-Philippe Mateta (28) suffered a horrific injury when the opposing goalkeeper struck his face with reckless play during the match.
Mateta collapsed early in the first half due to a dangerous foul during the match against Millwall in the fifth round (Round of 16) of the 2024-2025 season FA Cup, held at Selhurst Park in London, England, at 9 p.m. (Korean time) on the 1st. Crystal Palace secured a 3-1 victory to advance to the quarterfinals, but the focus of the match shifted from the win to Mateta's injury.
The incident occurred just six minutes into the first half. As Mateta rushed toward a long consolidation pass from the back, Millwall goalkeeper Liam Roberts jumped into the air outside the penalty box. He failed to play the ball, and instead, his raised left foot struck Mateta's face directly.
Stunned by the impact, Mateta fell to the ground, blood flowing from his left ear. Medical staff were urgently called, and he was transported to the hospital on a stretcher while wearing an oxygen mask. He later received emergency treatment requiring 25 stitches in his ear and was discharged.
Roberts' dangerous tackle led to an immediate red card after video assistant referee (VAR) review. Crystal Palace criticized the act, stating, "Such reckless challenges threaten players' lives."
The greater shock continued outside the stadium. While Mateta was being treated, some Millwall away fans shouted inhumane chants like "Let him die," causing controversy.
Crystal Palace chairman Steve Parish expressed his outrage, saying, "Such scenes are absolutely unacceptable in football. While Roberts' actions were shocking, the fans' reactions were even more horrific."
The Football Association (FA) is currently investigating the actions of Millwall fans and will conduct additional investigations into homophobic remarks directed at Ben Chilwell, who is on loan from Chelsea.
The incident has also drawn strong criticism in the UK. BBC commentator Martin Keown harshly rebuked, "It was like watching a kung fu kick. It was an unbelievable and dangerous challenge."
"TNT Sports" also reported, "Mateta suffered a horrific tackle. We wish him a speedy recovery," and BBC showcased related footage stating, "The player suffered a serious injury due to reckless challenges."
Crystal Palace coach Oliver Glasner expressed his anger in a post-match interview, stating, "Mateta's football career could have ended. Roberts' actions are unacceptable."
On the other hand, Millwall's manager Alex Neil attempted to smooth things over, stating, "Roberts did not intend to cause the injury." However, his remarks provoked a fierce backlash from Crystal Palace fans.
The day after the match, Mateta affirmed on his social media, "I am fine. I will come back stronger." Crystal Palace also issued an official statement that "Mateta has undergone a thorough examination and his health is currently good."
It is still uncertain when Mateta, who has scored 15 goals in 32 matches this season and has played a key role in Crystal Palace's attack, will return. However, the player is determined to return as soon as possible.
This incident is being evaluated as an act that cannot be permitted within football regulations, beyond being a mere collision during the match. As the possibility of the FA imposing additional penalties on Roberts is raised, attention focuses on whether this incident will impact future revisions of football regulations in England.
Crystal Palace will have to play in the upcoming quarterfinal match without Mateta. Despite suffering a significant blow from his injury, the team is committed to winning for Mateta.
[OSEN = Reporter Seungwoo Jeong]