BBC commentator Jonathan Pearce strongly criticized Millwall fans for their offensive chants directed at Jean-Philippe Mateta.
Mateta was stretchered off the field and required oxygen after a collision with goalkeeper Liam Roberts, which resulted in Roberts being sent off.
Travelling fans at Selhurst Park were heard chanting “Let Him Die,” chants which Pearce immediately condemned during the broadcast.
Pearce commented that Millwall fans were damaging their reputation with their chants about Mateta, suggesting potential repercussions for the club.
According to reports, the Football Association will investigate chants aimed at Ben Chilwell, who is on loan to Palace. However, the chants directed at Mateta are not expected to be investigated as they are not considered to breach regulations.
The incident occurred just six minutes into the FA Cup fifth-round match when Will Hughes of Palace made a long pass.
Mateta and Millwall defender Jake Cooper competed for the ball when Millwall goalkeeper Roberts rushed out of his penalty area.
Roberts appeared to make contact with the ball but then collided with Mateta’s head with his raised boot.
Referee Michael Oliver initially allowed play to continue, but stopped the game after a Palace shot was cleared.
Oliver reviewed the play on the VAR monitor and decided to overturn his initial decision, sending Roberts off.
Mateta remained on the ground for several minutes receiving medical attention.
After approximately ten minutes, he was stretchered off the field and taken to a hospital by ambulance.
The French striker was given oxygen as he was taken away.
Eddie Nketiah replaced Mateta as a concussion substitute.
Millwall made a substitution as well, with Lukas Jensen replacing Luke Cundle.
An own goal and a Daniel Munoz goal gave Palace the lead, while Wes Harding scored for Millwall in added time. Eddie Nketiah increased Palace’s lead to 3-1. Eagles owner Steve Parish criticized Millwall keeper Roberts for endangering Mateta’s life.
