Below is a summary of the full article. Click here for the full version or go back to LFC Live.net

Match Referee Michael Oliver reviews an incident on the pitch side VAR monitor which resulted in a red card decision during the Emirates FA Cup Fifth Round match between Crystal Palace and Millwall at Selhurst Park on March 01, 2025 in London, England.

(Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)

Referee Michael Oliver found himself at the centre of a contentious decision during the FA Cup fifth round match between Crystal Palace and Millwall, leading to the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) stepping in.

Early into the London derby at Selhurst Park, Millwall's goalkeeper Liam Roberts dashed out to clear the ball before Jean-Philippe Mateta could reach it.



Although he got to the ball first, his high follow-through resulted in him striking the Palace forward in the head with his foot as they collided.

Initially, referee Michael Oliver seemed to allow play to go on.

However, he halted the game upon realising the severity of Mateta's injury.

READ MORE:Dominik Szoboszlai has learnt from big Liverpool mistake but hasn't won over most famous criticREAD MORE:Carlos Alcaraz transfer clause doubt shared as ex-Flamengo director makes Everton claim

While Mateta was being treated during the pause in play, VAR suggested that the referee review the incident on the screen to determine whether a red card should be issued.

After examining the replay on the pitchside monitor, Oliver quickly reversed his initial decision and showed a straight red card to Roberts.

In an FA Cup first, the referee used an in-stadium announcement to clarify his decision, with the goalkeeper dismissed for serious foul play, reports Football London.

Article continues below

Medical teams attended to Mateta on the pitch for several minutes before he was stretchered off.

He seemed to be heading directly to the ambulance for further medical attention and was substituted by ex-Arsenal player Eddie Nketiah.

After the game, Palace boss Oliver Glasner confirmed Mateta was conscious in hospital but had suffered a "very serious injury" to his ear.


For more news relating to Arsenal, visit our sister site AFC Latest Live.