Jean-Philippe Mateta breaks silence after major Crystal Palace vs Millwall incident
Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta has spoken out after finding himself on the end of a shocking tackle during his side's FA Cup clash with Millwall.
The two sides faced off in the fifth round of the competition at Selhurst Park on Saturday (1 March) with a place in the quarter finals at stake.
It was Oliver Glasner's side who progressed to the last eight, thanks to a number of impressive performances from those in Crystal Palace shirts in a 3-1 win over their Championship opponents.
However, that game was still overshadowed for those connected with the Eagles after Mateta was stretchered off early on in the game.
Jean-Philippe Mateta speaks out after Liam Roberts red card
With just a few minutes on the clock in the match, Mateta was on the end of a sickening challenge from Liam Roberts.
As the Crystal Palace striker looked to run onto the ball, the Millwall goalkeeper came rushing out of his area, before jumping and kicking Mateta directly in the head.
That left the 27-year-old flat out on the ground needing significant treatment before he was stretchered off and taken to hospital.
| Jean-Philippe Mateta for Crystal Palace in 2024/25 | Total (as per Transfermarkt) |
| Appearances | 33 |
| Goals | 15 |
| Assists | 3 |
| Yellow Cards | 3 |
| Red Cards | 0 |
Roberts meanwhile was sent off by referee Michael Oliver after a VAR review, leaving Millwall down to ten men.
It has since been suggested that the Millwall goalkeeper may face a five-match ban for that foul on Mateta.
The Crystal Palace striker meanwhile has now clarified his own condition in the wake of that incident, while also sending a message to his teammates about their win.
Taking to his Instagram story after the game, Mateta wrote: "Thank you for all your kind messages. I'm doing well. I hope to be back very soon. And stronger than ever. Well done guys for the great job today. I love you. JP."
Crystal Palace relieved over fresh update
Football Insider Verdict
There is absolutely no doubt that this post from Mateta will be a huge relief for anyone connected with Crystal Palace.
First and foremost, and an injury that appeared so concerning, it is hugely important that the striker is alright from a physical perspective.
Beyond that Mateta is enjoying yet another excellent season for Crystal Palace in front of goal, especially in recent weeks.
So from a footballing perspective too, they are inevitably going to want him back and playing a key role for them as soon as possible.
This update will therefore be a welcome one for Crystal Palace for a number of reasons.