Female referee suffers concussion while trying to break up players’ clash

Female referee Mathilde Demoncay sustained a concussion while trying to de-escalate a conflict during a friendly football match between French club Metz and Dutch side Fortuna Sittard. The incident unfolded in the 40th minute after a shirt-pulling foul sparked tensions between players from both teams.

As the disagreement escalated into a melee, Demoncay intervened to restore order. However, she was caught in the middle of the confrontation and fell heavily to the ground. Assistant referees, security personnel, and medical staff immediately rushed to her aid. After receiving initial treatment on the pitch, the 26-year-old referee managed to return to the field and served as an assistant referee when play resumed.

Despite her return, Demoncay was unable to continue for the entire match and was replaced after halftime. Metz ultimately won the friendly 3-1. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks faced by match officials who often must intervene in heated player confrontations.