Crystal Palace's Mateta suffers head injury in FA Cup clash
What's the story
Crystal Palace's star striker, Jean-Philippe Mateta, sustained a horrific head injury during an FA Cup fifth-round match against Millwall. The incident took place after a rash challenge by Millwall's goalkeeper, Liam Roberts. After a video assistant review (VAR), Roberts was sent off the field for his dangerous play with a red card. In positive news for Palace, they have a 2-1 lead thanks to Daniel Muñoz and Japhet Tanganga's own goal. Here's more.
Game interruption
Mateta's injury halts game, leads to substitution
The game was put on hold for a while as Mateta was treated on the field. He was given oxygen before being stretchered off to an ambulance. Eddie Nketiah, a substitute player, came in for the injured 27-year-old striker. The incident led to 13 extra minutes added to the first half at Selhurst Park.
Match progress
Crystal Palace lead despite Mateta's absence
As mentioned, despite the unfortunate incident, Crystal Palace have held on to a 2-1 lead against Millwall at half-time. The goals were scored by Japhet Tanganga (own goal) and Daniel Muñoz. For Milwall, Wes Harding grabbed a goal in the 13th additional minute. Mateta's absence from the field is a huge loss for the Eagles, considering his brilliant form this season with 15 goals in 32 appearances overall.
Numbers
Mateta's numbers at a glance
As mentioned he has netted 15 goals in 33 appearances this season including three assists. Meanwhile, most of his goals have come in the Premier League (12) from 27 appearances. He also managed three goals in the EFL Cup. Overall, he has scored 44 goals in 139 appearances for Palace alongside nine assists. His overall career goal tally stands at 107 across 278 appearances.