Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta suffered a nasty head injury at Selhurst Park.
The incident left him with a severe laceration in his left ear, requiring 25 stitches. Palace chairman Steve Parish labeled the challenge as “the most reckless I’ve ever seen.”
The drama unfolded just six minutes into the game. Mateta challenged for a high ball just outside the area. Millwall goalkeeper Liam Roberts charged out of his box and struck Mateta’s head with a high boot.
Referee Michael Oliver checked the pitchside monitor immediately. He promptly sent Roberts off the field. Mateta received nearly 10 minutes of on-field treatment before leaving the pitch.
Palace rushed Mateta to the hospital for specialist care. He underwent treatment that involved 25 stitches to mend his injured ear. Scans confirmed that there were no further complications. Mateta later assured fans on Instagram that he was “doing well” and hoped to return soon.
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At half-time, Palace chairman Steve Parish did not hold back. He blasted the challenge as shocking and reckless. “I’ve never seen a challenge like it,” Parish declared. He urged Roberts to reflect on his actions and questioned the referee’s decision to review the monitor.
After the match, Parish struck a calmer tone during his Sky Sports News interview. He confirmed that Mateta was in stable condition, having received a message from the player’s agents. Parish stressed that despite the setback, the win and progression to the next round lifted the club’s spirits.
Millwall boss Alex Neil downplayed the incident. He argued that Roberts did not show any intent to harm and described the challenge as mistimed and disappointing. Neil wished Mateta a speedy recovery and expressed sympathy for the injured player, even as he criticized the decision that saw Roberts sent off.
Palace coach Oliver Glasner admitted that the injury dimmed the joy of victory. He acknowledged the danger posed by high-intensity challenges on the pitch. Glasner urged extra caution in such situations and wished Mateta a swift recovery. Now, the team focuses on the upcoming FA Cup quarter-final with determination and mixed emotions.
