It is quite fortunate. Jean-Philippe Mateta (28, Crystal Palace) underwent a staggering 25 stitches, but has been discharged safely.
Palace stated on the 2nd (Korea time) through the club's website that "Mateta received specialist treatment this evening at St. George's Hospital. He sustained a severe laceration to his left ear and was discharged after receiving 25 stitches. All examination results were clear, and he is in good health."
Palace added, "Mateta will rest for a few days and recover. The club's medical staff will monitor his recovery. We appreciate the professionalism and assistance shown by both Selhurst Park and the hospital medical staff. We also thank everyone for the support given to Mateta and the club."
Mateta suffered a horrific injury during the FA Cup fifth round (round of 16) match against Millwall held at Selhurst Park in London on the 1st. Although Palace won 3-1 to advance to the quarterfinals, Mateta could not watch until the end and had to be transported to the hospital.
The incident occurred just six minutes after kickoff. As Mateta rushed to receive a long pass from the back, Millwall goalkeeper Liam Roberts leaped into the air outside the penalty box. Instead of kicking the ball, Roberts violently kicked Mateta in the face with his outstretched left foot.
Caught off guard, Mateta collapsed, bleeding from his left ear. He received treatment while wearing an oxygen mask for eight minutes before being carried off on a stretcher. Roberts, who committed the dangerous tackle, received a direct red card after a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) review.
According to the UK's "Sky Sports," Mateta was treated on the field for about 10 minutes before being transferred to the hospital. Fortunately, Oliver Glasner, the Palace manager, revealed after the match that Mateta had regained consciousness. He also noted, "Mateta's football life could have ended. I don't want to blame Roberts, but it was a terrible foul."
Steve Parish, the Palace chairman, was also enraged. He unusually conducted an interview during halftime, saying, "Mateta sustained serious injuries behind his ear and has a head injury. He is currently hospitalized." He emphasized, "I've never seen such a challenge. It was the most reckless challenge I've ever seen on a field. He (Roberts) has potentially put a fellow professional's career, and perhaps life, at risk, and he needs to reflect on that."
Strong criticism also followed in the UK. BBC commentator Martin Keown condemned the incident, saying, "It was like watching a kung-fu kick. It was an unbelievably dangerous challenge that should not be believed."
"TNT Sports" also reported, "Mateta was subjected to a horrific tackle. We wish him a swift recovery," and "BBC" published related footage, stating, "The player suffered a serious injury due to an excessive challenge." In fact, Mateta had to undergo major surgery involving 25 stitches.
Even more shocking was the response from Millwall fans. Notoriously known as hooligans in the UK, they shouted, "Let him die" towards the fallen Mateta. This was in stark contrast to the Palace fans, who gave him a standing ovation while chanting his name.
Piers Morgan, who was commentating for the BBC, immediately criticized the Millwall fans. He noted, "Millwall fans are not loved by anyone with such shouts." However, the Football Association (FA) is reported to consider this not a violation of regulations and thus does not plan to investigate further.
Having completed treatment and been discharged, Mateta took to social media to express, "Thank you for all your warm messages. I'm okay. I hope to return quickly, stronger than ever."
However, it is uncertain when Mateta will be able to return. Given that he received 25 stitches, it is expected that he will need some time to rest. Mateta has been a key player for Palace, scoring 15 goals in 32 matches this season. This is a significant blow to Palace, which is currently battling for a mid-table position in 12th place in the Premier League.
[Photo] ⓒGettyimages (No unauthorized reproduction or redistribution), Bleacher Report Football, Sky Sports, Jean-Philippe Mateta's social media.
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