Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta has assured fans that he is recovering well after suffering a brutal head injury during his side’s 3-1 victory over Millwall in the FA Cup fifth round on Saturday, March 1, 2025.
Mateta was rushed to the hospital after a reckless challenge by Millwall goalkeeper Liam Roberts, who caught the French striker’s head with his boot while attempting to clear the ball just eight minutes into the match at Selhurst Park.
“I’ll Be Back Stronger” 💪
The 27-year-old took to Instagram to update fans on his condition, saying:
“Thank you for all your kind messages. I’m doing well. I hope to be back very soon — stronger than ever. Well done, guys, for a great job today.”
Crystal Palace later confirmed that Mateta received 25 stitches for a deep cut behind his left ear but that all scans had come back clear.
Near Career-Ending Challenge
Palace manager Oliver Glasner condemned the challenge, saying:
“It could have ended JP’s career. I know Liam Roberts didn’t intend to hurt him, but such a reckless challenge cannot happen in football.”
Club chairman Steve Parish also described the tackle as “the most reckless challenge” he had ever seen.
Red Card Drama
Roberts initially escaped punishment, but the referee Michael Oliver later issued a red card after a VAR review, leaving Millwall with 10 men for almost the entire game.
Despite the shocking incident, Crystal Palace capitalized on their advantage with goals from:
• Japhet Tanganga (own goal)
• Daniel Muñoz
• Eddie Nketiah
When Will Mateta Return?
While no official return date has been set, the club confirmed that Mateta will rest for several days with his recovery closely monitored by the medical team.
Mateta has been in red-hot form this season, scoring 15 goals in all competitions, including eight in his last nine games.
Fans will be hoping to see him back on the pitch as Palace push for a strong finish in the FA Cup and Premier League.
Wishing Mateta a speedy recovery! 💪🔥
