Mavropanos Stretchered Off After Serious Head Injury as West Ham Edge QPR
West Ham defender Konstantinos Mavropanos was stretchered from the pitch after suffering a worrying head injury during the Hammers’ FA Cup third round tie against Queens Park Rangers at the London Stadium.
The Greece international was involved in a heavy collision late in the first half, requiring prolonged on-field treatment before being taken down the tunnel in a neck brace, casting a shadow over an already tense cup contest.
The incident occurred in the 39th minute as Mavropanos challenged for the ball inside a crowded penalty area. After appearing to be nudged by QPR goalkeeper Joe Walsh, the centre-back lost his balance and collapsed awkwardly, his head colliding with a defender’s knee as he fell.
The severity of the impact was immediately clear. West Ham medical staff rushed onto the pitch and, after further assessment, called for a stretcher. Mavropanos was conscious as he left the field and was replaced by new signing Pablo Felipe, with both sets of supporters applauding him off in a show of concern and respect.
The lengthy stoppage resulted in nine minutes of added time at the end of the first half. During those additional minutes, West Ham took the lead through Crysencio Summerville, giving the hosts a momentary lift after a distressing episode.
The match itself carried added significance for a West Ham side struggling for form and confidence, currently languishing in the Premier League relegation zone. With pressure mounting on manager Nuno Espirito Santo, the FA Cup offered a chance for respite, even as defensive frailties continued to haunt the team.
Inside a tense London Stadium, the early exchanges were physical and scrappy, with both sides battling for control. West Ham saw more of the ball, while QPR looked dangerous on the break, targeting spaces behind a back line already under scrutiny.
After the restart, QPR capitalised on West Ham’s defensive uncertainty. Richard Kone equalised in the 65th minute, punishing lapses at the back and dragging the Championship side level. The goal shifted momentum and exposed the Hammers to further pressure.
Despite missed chances and tired legs, West Ham eventually forced the tie into extra time. The decisive moment arrived in the 98th minute when Valentin Castellanos rose to head home, restoring the hosts’ advantage and finally settling a draining cup encounter.
The result sends West Ham through but leaves lingering concerns. Mavropanos has featured in 14 Premier League matches this season and his availability going forward remains uncertain as concussion protocols are followed. Signed from Stuttgart in 2023 for £19 million, the defender will be eager to return quickly as West Ham prepare for a demanding league schedule, starting with a trip to Tottenham on January 17.