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Jean-Philippe Mateta is recovering after a horrific incident during Saturday’s FA Cup match, where he was hospitalised following a brutal challenge from Millwall goalkeeper Liam Roberts. The incident occurred just eight minutes into the fifth-round tie, which Crystal Palace won 3-1.
As Roberts rushed to clear the ball, his boot collided with Mateta’s head, knocking the striker to the ground. A VAR review led to Roberts being sent off, while Mateta received lengthy treatment, including oxygen, before being taken to hospital.
On Instagram, Mateta reassured fans, saying, “Thank you for all your kind messages. I’m doing well. I hope to be back very soon. And stronger than ever.”
Palace manager Oliver Glasner expressed relief that the injury wasn’t more severe, emphasising how the impact could have ended Mateta’s career.
Mateta, who had been in excellent form with 15 goals this season, including five at the Paris Olympics, was praised by Palace chairman Steve Parish for his recovery, though Parish condemned Roberts’ challenge as the most reckless he had ever seen on a football pitch.
Despite the setback, Palace pressed on with a man advantage, securing the win with goals from Japhet Tanganga (own goal), Daniel Munoz, and Eddie Nketiah.
