Chelsea Football Club and the Metropolitan Police are investigating an incident that occurred at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday night, where a fan appeared to push Newcastle United goalkeeper Martin Dubravka on the pitch.
The incident happened moments after Chelsea’s dramatic 92nd-minute equalizer, scored by Mykhailo Mudryk, which forced the Carabao Cup quarter-final tie into a penalty shootout. In the ensuing celebrations, a supporter evaded stewards and ran onto the field, approaching Dubravka in a confrontational manner.
Footage of the incident shows the fan bumping into Dubravka before quickly jogging back into the stands. While the contact appeared light, it was a clear breach of security and could have had serious consequences.
“We are aware of the incident and are working with the club and the relevant authorities to investigate it fully,” a Metropolitan Police spokesperson said.
Chelsea also released a statement condemning the fan’s actions. “The club unreservedly condemns the behaviour of the individual who entered the pitch and approached Newcastle United goalkeeper Martin Dubravka,” the statement read. “The club is cooperating fully with the Metropolitan Police in their investigation, and appropriate action will be taken.”
The incident has cast a shadow over Chelsea’s victory and raises concerns about fan safety at football matches. It is important to remember that players and officials deserve to be protected from harassment and assault, and that entering the pitch is a serious offence.
It is hoped that the investigation will be swift and thorough, and that appropriate action will be taken against the fan involved. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible fan behavior and the need for robust security measures at football stadiums.
