Crystal Palace star Mateta hospitalised by horror challenge | OneFootball

Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta has been sent to hospital in an ambulance following a dangerous challenge by Millwall goalkeeper Liam Roberts.

The Frenchman was competing for a bouncing ball when the shot stopper lunged in with a high boot, clearing the ball but kicking the player in the head at the same time just eight minutes after kickoff.

Mateta required treatment on the pitch for several minutes and received oxygen before being stretchered off to a standing ovation by the crowd at Selhurst Park. Eddie Nketiah was substituted on in his place.

Palace chairman Steve Parish was shown on the screens animatedly re-enacting the X-rated tackle to members of the club staff.

Crystal Palace star Mateta hospitalised by horror challenge

Roberts was sent off after referee Michael Oliver was sent to the monitor by the VAR to review the incident. January signing Luke Cundle made way for back-up goalkeeper Lukas Jensen.

The 30-year-old is the first Millwall player to be sent off in the FA Cup since March 2019 against Brighton & Hove Albion.

The Eagles opened the scoring in the 33rd minute thanks to an own goal from former Tottenham Hotspur defender Japhet Tanganga before Daniel Munoz doubled their lead.

Read – Mateta matches Salah on ‘perfect night’ for Crystal Palace

See Also – Can anyone end the ‘Big Five’ stranglehold on the FA Cup?

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