Crystal Palace’s Jean-Philippe Mateta conscious following horror tackle to head in FA Cup clash vs. Millwall

Eight minutes after the 3-1 victory of Crystal Palace over Millwall in the FA Cup round of 16, striker Jean-Philippe Mateta had to be withdrawn from the game and finally taken to the hospital after a reckless challenge from Millwall Keeper Liam Roberts. The Millwall -keeper was sent away with a red card when his high challenge saw his foot make contact with the side of Mateta’s head outside the box. It is a challenge that looks more like karate than football, so that the broadcasting of a simple decision was sent after a variety evaluation.

“He is aware and he is in the hospital, but his ear clearly looks terrible. [It’s a] Very serious injury, so of course we hope the best for him and let’s look, “said Oliver Glasner after the game.

Mateta then posted a message to social media about the situation.

“Thanks for your friendly messages. I am doing well. I hope to be back soon and stronger than ever,” Mateta posted on his Instagram story. “Well done guys for the great work today. I love you. JP”

In the midst of a strong season with 12 Premier League goals and two assists, Mateta has been an important part of the palace attack, so they don’t want this injury to keep him out for a long time, but, more importantly, it is good to see that he is aware and in a good mood after the victory for his eagles. Palace chairman Steve Parish also weighed the challenge.

“In the whole time I watched football, I don’t think I have ever seen a worse challenge. If you kick someone in the head, you don’t know what damage was caused,” Parish said.

On Sunday, Crystal Palace will find out with whom they are confronted in the last eight of the FA Cup when the draw takes place after the collision of Manchester United with Fulham.