Chelsea F.C. winger Pedro Neto has apologised after a ball boy required medical attention following an incident during his side’s 5–2 defeat to Paris Saint‑Germain F.C. on Wednesday night.
The clash, played at the Parc des Princes, saw the French champions dominate the first leg of their Round of 16 tie. Goals from Bradley Barcola, Ousmane Dembélé, Vitinha and a brace from Khvicha Kvaratskhelia secured a commanding victory for PSG. Malo Gusto had earlier equalised for Chelsea, while Enzo Fernández later added a consolation goal.
Tensions rose late in the match when Neto attempted to retrieve the ball quickly from a ball boy as Chelsea chased the game. In the process, the Portuguese international pushed the youngster, who fell to the ground and required medical attention.
The incident sparked a brief confrontation between players from both sides. PSG players moved to block Neto and Chelsea captain Reece James as tempers flared, while Marquinhos and Fernández were also involved in the exchange.
Match referee Alejandro Hernández Hernández intervened to calm the situation and spoke with both team captains. The moment was also reviewed by VAR officials, but no red card was issued and Neto avoided a booking.
Speaking after the match to TNT Sports, Neto apologised for his actions. He said he had already spoken with the ball boy and expressed regret for the push, explaining that emotions were running high as his team trailed during the match.
“I want to apologise to the ball boy. I have already spoken with him. In the heat of the moment I pushed him while trying to get the ball quickly. I realised I hurt him and went to apologise,” Neto said, adding that he also gave the youngster his shirt.
Chelsea head coach Liam Rosenior also addressed the incident, apologising on behalf of the club if any of their players had behaved improperly. Chelsea now face a difficult task in the second leg at Stamford Bridge after PSG’s dominant performance in Paris.
