Mateta Suffers Brutal Head Injury in FA Cup Clash but Vows to Return Stronger
Jean-Philippe Mateta, Crystal Palace’s in-form striker, suffered a terrifying head injury during the FA Cup fifth-round clash against Millwall. The shocking incident happened just six minutes into the match when Millwall goalkeeper Liam Roberts charged out of his box and, in an attempt to clear the ball, ended up kicking Mateta in the side of the head. The challenge was so reckless that it immediately raised concerns for the French forward’s safety.
Mateta was left on the ground, receiving extensive medical attention for nearly ten minutes. Oxygen was administered before he was stretchered off the field, with worried teammates and fans anxiously watching. Referee Michael Oliver initially did not take action but, after a VAR review, issued Roberts a straight red card—a decision that even Millwall manager Alex Neil could not dispute.
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Crystal Palace chairman Steve Parish didn’t hold back his emotions, calling it “the most reckless challenge I’ve ever seen” and accusing Roberts of endangering Mateta’s career and even his life. Meanwhile, Palace manager Oliver Glasner admitted he initially didn’t want to watch the replay because of how severe the foul was. He later said, “Just imagine if he had hit his face directly with that much power. It could have been the end of JP’s career.”
Despite the horrific injury, Palace managed to secure a 3-1 victory, with substitute Eddie Nketiah stepping in and scoring. But the win was overshadowed by concern for Mateta, who was rushed to the hospital. He received 25 stitches to a severe laceration on his left ear, but thankfully, all scans came back clear. Hours later, Mateta reassured fans through social media, saying, “I’m doing well. I hope to be back very soon and stronger than ever.”
The FA has condemned offensive chants directed at Mateta by sections of the Millwall crowd, but the incident has sparked wider discussions about player safety. While Roberts may not have intended to cause harm, the sheer recklessness of the challenge has left many calling for stricter punishments for dangerous play.
For now, the focus remains on Mateta’s recovery. His incredible form this season—15 goals in 33 appearances, including eight in his last eight Premier League games—has been a huge boost for Palace, and fans will be hoping he can return in time for the FA Cup quarter-finals. But one thing is certain: this was a near-disastrous moment that serves as a stark reminder of how brutal football can be.
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