Pedro Neto has issued an apology after pushing a ball boy during Chelsea F.C.’s heavy defeat to Paris Saint-Germain F.C. in the UEFA Champions League.
The incident happened late in the match at Parc des Princes as Chelsea suffered a 5–2 defeat in the first leg of their round-of-16 tie.
What Happened
The situation unfolded during stoppage time after PSG scored their fourth goal.
Frustrated and eager to restart play quickly, Neto attempted to retrieve the ball from a ball boy positioned near the touchline. In the process, he pushed the youngster, who stumbled backward over a chair.
The moment immediately sparked a brief confrontation between players from both teams, adding to an already tense night for the visitors.
Neto’s Apology
Speaking after the match, the Portuguese winger admitted his actions were wrong and apologised directly to the ball boy.
“I want to apologise to the ball boy. I have already spoken to him. We were losing and in the emotion of the game, I wanted to get the ball fast and I gave him a little push.”
Neto insisted the behaviour does not reflect his character.
“I’m not like this. It was in the heat of the moment and I want to apologise.”
Making Amends
Because Neto does not speak French fluently, his Portugal teammate Vitinha helped translate the apology.
The Chelsea forward also tried to make peace with the youngster by giving him his match shirt.
According to Neto, the situation eventually ended on a positive note.
“At the end he laughed and I gave him my shirt and said sorry about 35 times.”
Possible UEFA Action
It remains unclear whether UEFA will take disciplinary action over the incident.
The controversy capped a difficult night for Chelsea, who conceded three late goals to leave their Champions League hopes hanging by a thread.
What’s Next for Chelsea
Chelsea must now regroup quickly as they prepare for a Premier League clash with Newcastle United F.C..
After that, they face a daunting task in the return leg against PSG at Stamford Bridge, where they will attempt to overturn a three-goal deficit to stay alive in the Champions League. ⚽