Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta has reassured fans of his well-being after suffering a severe head injury during his team’s 3-1 FA Cup fifth-round victory over Millwall. Mateta was hospitalised after a dangerous challenge from Millwall goalkeeper Liam Roberts, who was sent off following a VAR review.
Roberts’s boot struck Mateta’s head as he charged out to clear the ball, leaving the French striker with a severe laceration to his left ear that required 25 stitches. Mateta was stretchered off and taken to the hospital, where scans ruled out further complications. Palace later confirmed that he had been discharged and would be monitored during his recovery.
Palace manager Oliver Glasner condemned the challenge, stating it could have ended Mateta’s career. Club chairman Steve Parish also called it “the most reckless challenge” he had ever seen, emphasizing the danger it posed to the player’s safety.
Despite the incident, the Palace capitalized on their numerical advantage to secure a place in the quarter-finals. Japhet Tanganga’s own goal opened the scoring before Daniel Muñoz doubled the lead. Wes Harding pulled one back for Millwall, but Eddie Nketiah sealed the win with a late header.
Mateta, who has been in excellent form with 15 goals this season, expressed gratitude for the support he received, promising to return stronger.
