Chelsea winger Pedro Neto issued a public apology after shoving a ball boy during his side’s heavy defeat to Paris Saint‑Germain in the UEFA Champions League Round of 16.
The controversial moment occurred late in the match at the Parc des Princes in Paris, as tensions rose during a dramatic ending to the first-leg encounter between PSG and Chelsea FC.
What Happened?
With the game entering stoppage time and Chelsea chasing the match, the ball went out of play near the sideline. Neto rushed to retrieve it in an attempt to restart play quickly.
However, the ball boy appeared to hold onto the ball momentarily, delaying the restart. Frustrated, Neto pushed the youngster in the chest while trying to grab the ball. The ball boy fell backward into the advertising boards, prompting an immediate reaction from PSG players and officials.
Players from both teams quickly surrounded the scene as tempers flared on the touchline.
No Immediate Punishment
Despite the incident causing a brief confrontation on the pitch, the referee chose not to issue a card to Neto during the match. However, the situation could still be reviewed by UEFA after the game.
The ball boy was able to get back up and appeared unharmed after the fall.
Neto’s Apology
Speaking after the match, Neto admitted he lost control of his emotions and apologized to the youngster.
“I want to apologise to the ball boy. I already spoke with him. With the emotions of the game and us losing, I wanted to pick up the ball quickly and gave him a little push,” Neto said.
The Portuguese winger also revealed that he gave the ball boy his match shirt and apologized several times following the incident.
PSG Take Control of the Tie
The chaotic ending capped a difficult night for Chelsea. PSG ultimately secured a 5–2 victory, putting them in a strong position ahead of the second leg at Stamford Bridge.
Late goals from Khvicha Kvaratskhelia helped seal the dominant win for the French champions.
The result leaves Chelsea facing a major challenge in the return leg if they hope to keep their Champions League campaign alive.
