Ligue 1: AS Monaco’s Wilfried Singo apologizes for horror foul on Gigi Donnarumma

The incident occurred in the 17th minute and has drawn attention not only for its severity but also for the sportsmanship shown by Singo afterward. The unfortunate moment unfolded when Monaco’s Wilfried Singo, attempting to recover from a blocked shot, tried to leap over the sliding Gianluigi Donnarumma. Instead, his cleat struck the Italian goalkeeper’s face, leaving him bloodied and in visible pain.

WHAT DID I JUST WATCH?! WORST TACKLE EVER?! …. 😳😳pic.twitter.com/AZ9ea5mRcl

— Football Hub (@FootbalIhub) December 18, 2024

Donnarumma was immediately treated on the field but ultimately had to be substituted for Matvey Safonov. Images from the match revealed cuts below Donnarumma’s right eye, with PSG later confirming he suffered “facial trauma with multiple wounds.” The goalkeeper is set to undergo further medical examinations and is expected to rest for several days, potentially sidelining him from upcoming fixtures.

Taking to social media, Singo expressed his remorse for the incident in a statement written in both French and Italian. “My gesture was obviously not intentional, but I was able to see afterward that he had a significant injury to his face,” Singo wrote. “I wish you a good recovery.” The Monaco defender had been warned earlier in the match and avoided a red card for the incident, a decision that has sparked debate among fans and pundits alike.

PSG secure dominant win despite the setback

Amidst the drama, PSG managed to deliver a convincing performance, defeating Monaco 4-2 to tighten their grip on the Ligue 1 title race. The victory saw the Parisians open up a 10-point lead at the top of the table, showcasing their relentless form this season. While losing Donnarumma, widely regarded as one of the best keepers in the world, was a huge blow to the side, they managed to round up a dominant win over the hosts.

Monaco, who entered the match as one of PSG’s main challengers, struggled to contain their opponent’s attack. Shortly after Donnarumma’s injury, PSG were put 1-0 up by summer signing Désiré Doué, who scored his debut league goal for the club. However, Monaco turned the tide in the second half as they took the lead for a brief period after two quickfire goals, courtesy Eliesse Ben Seghir’s penalty and a Breel Embolo strike.

🚨⚠️ Gigio Donnarumma’s conditions pictured by @ArthurPerrot… after a foul suffered by Wilfred Singo. pic.twitter.com/KQRkASiyMO

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) December 18, 2024

The lead lasted merely minutes for the hosts as they were pegged back on level terms by Ousmane Dembele in the 64th minute before Goncalo Ramos completed the comeback in the 83rd minute. There was still time for another though, as Dembele secured his second and PSG’s fourth of the night to win the game 4-2. This loss saw Monaco remain in third place on the table, level on points with second-place Marseille.

The defeat serves as a setback for the Monegasques, who were hoping to close the gap on the league leaders. With Marseille having a game in hand, the race for second place intensifies. The injury to Donnarumma is a concerning development for PSG, given his importance to the squad. While Matvey Safonov stepped in capably during the match, Donnarumma’s absence in the coming days will be felt as the club navigates a busy fixture schedule.

For Monaco, the incident highlights the need for caution and composure in high-stakes matches. While Singo’s apology reflects his understanding of the gravity of the situation, the defender will undoubtedly seek to move forward and contribute positively to his team’s campaign. This match was a testament to PSG’s dominance and determination, even in the face of adversity. However, the clash will likely be remembered more for the unfortunate injury to one of the game’s premier goalkeepers than for the goals scored.