Head injury forces West Ham defender from pitch
A sudden stoppage at the London Stadium
West Ham’s meeting with QPR in the FA Cup was halted late in the first half following a heavy collision involving Konstantinos Mavropanos. According to Goal.com, the incident occurred inside the penalty area as players challenged for the ball during a crowded phase of play.
With 39 minutes on the clock, Mavropanos appeared to be nudged by QPR goalkeeper Joe Walsh before losing his footing. As he fell, the defender’s head made contact with the knee of another player, leaving him motionless on the pitch.
Immediate concern from players and medics
Concern spread quickly among both teams as the Greece international failed to get up. Medical staff were called onto the field immediately, and the referee stopped play while the situation was assessed.
According to reporting by Goal.com, Mavropanos was eventually fitted with a neck brace and placed on a stretcher. He was conscious as he was taken down the tunnel, though concussion protocols were expected to be followed.
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The 28 year old was replaced by new signing Pablo Felipe, and supporters from both sides applauded as he was carried off.
Long delay shapes the contest
The extended period of treatment led to nine minutes of stoppage time being added at the end of the first half. QPR later acknowledged the incident on social media, writing, “Into added time after lengthy treatment for West Ham’s Mavropanos. We wish him well,” as quoted by Goal.com.
West Ham took advantage of the additional time when Crysencio Summerville gave the hosts the lead before the break. That advantage was short lived, with Richard Kone equalising for QPR in the 65th minute.
The tie eventually moved into extra time, where Valentin Castellanos restored West Ham’s lead in the 98th minute.
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Another setback in a difficult season
The injury added to a challenging afternoon for West Ham, who are currently battling in the Premier League relegation zone. Defensive issues have been a recurring problem throughout the campaign.
Mavropanos has featured 14 times in the league since joining from Arsenal in 2023 for a reported £19 million. According to Goal.com and reporter Chris Burton, it remains unclear when the defender will be fit to return, creating further uncertainty as league fixtures continue.
Sources, Goal.com
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