Crystal Palace secured their place in the FA Cup quarter-finals with a commanding 3-1 victory over Championship side Millwall.However, the win was overshadowed by a worrying injury to in-form striker Jean-Philippe Mateta, who was stretchered off early in the game.
The local derby started at a blistering pace but took a dramatic turn just eight minutes in when Mateta was struck in the head by Millwall goalkeeper Liam Roberts’ high boot.
The French forward had surged through on goal after shrugging off Jake Cooper’s challenge before the dangerous collision left him needing oxygen and lengthy medical treatment.
Initially, referee Michael Oliver allowed play to continue, but following a swift VAR intervention, he brandished a red card for Roberts. Mateta, after receiving medical attention for eight minutes, was stretchered off, casting a shadow over Palace’s evening.
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Palace Dominate to Seal Quarter-Final Spot
Despite the early setback, Palace took control and broke the deadlock in the 33rd minute when former Tottenham defender Japhet Tanganga inadvertently turned Will Hughes’ cross into his own net.
Seven minutes later, Daniel Muñoz doubled the advantage, tapping home from close range after Millwall failed to clear their lines. Initially flagged offside, the goal was reinstated following a swift VAR review, confirming Tanganga had the last touch.
Millwall responded deep into first-half stoppage time when Wes Harding fired home from a loose ball in the box, briefly giving the 10-man visitors hope. However, substitute Eddie Nketiah who replaced the injured Mateta ensured Palace’s progression with a composed finish in the 82nd minute, restoring their two-goal cushion.
Mateta Injury a Concern for High-Flying Palace
While the victory keeps Palace’s FA Cup dreams alive, Mateta’s injury is a significant concern. The striker has been instrumental in their resurgence, netting eight goals in his last nine matches. With the Eagles winning eight of their last 10 games in all competitions, his absence could be a major setback.
Preston Stun Burnley to Reach Quarter-Finals for First Time Since 1966
In another FA Cup shock, Preston North End dismantled Championship leaders Burnley with a stunning 3-0 victory at Deepdale.
Burnley, boasting the league’s best defensive record with just nine goals conceded in 34 matches, had no answer to Preston’s relentless attacking display.
Robbie Brady opened the scoring in the 31st minute with a sublime free-kick before Milutin Osmajić doubled the lead just before half-time.
Former Manchester United forward Will Keane sealed the historic win in the 73rd minute, guiding Andrew Hughes’ cross into the net.
The emphatic victory marks Preston’s first FA Cup quarter-final appearance in nearly six decades, ending a wait that stretched back to 1966.
