A crucial Championship fixture between Charlton Athletic and Portsmouth was dramatically abandoned on Saturday after just 12 minutes of play due to a serious medical emergency in the crowd at The Valley.
Match Suspended as Emergency Unfolds
The lunchtime kick-off on Saturday 6 December 2025 was suspended when it became clear a supporter in the lower tier of Charlton’s Covered End required immediate medical attention. Referee Matthew Donohue halted the game as medical teams and first responders rushed to aid the fan.
Players from both sides remained on the pitch for approximately seven minutes before being instructed to leave the field in the 19th minute. They subsequently headed down the tunnel as treatment continued. The affected supporter was stretchered away by paramedics after around 12 minutes of urgent care at the scene.
Official Abandonment and Club Statements
After a delay of around 45 minutes with limited communication to the crowd, an announcement was made over the tannoy confirming the match had been abandoned. The decision was met with some boos from spectators.
Stadium announcer Dave Lockwood addressed the crowd, stating: “Everyone here at Charlton sends their very best wishes to the supporter affected. We thank our medical team and first responders.” He also confirmed details on rescheduling would follow.
Charlton Athletic later released an official statement on X, formerly Twitter, reiterating the club's best wishes and thanking fans for their patience and understanding. The statement confirmed the match would be rescheduled, with information to be announced in due course.
Context of the Abandoned Fixture
The match had been seen by both teams as a key opportunity to return to winning ways after recent poor results. Prior to the incident, the game had begun with a minute's applause for former Charlton players Billy Bonds and Marvin Hinton, who both passed away recently.
In the brief period of play, Portsmouth had made the stronger start, and Charlton defender Lloyd Jones had received a yellow card. However, all sporting concerns were swiftly set aside as the focus turned to the wellbeing of the supporter.
The eventual abandonment left fans, players, and officials awaiting news on a new date for the fixture, with the welfare of the fan remaining the paramount concern.
