Charlton Athletic's League One clash with Portsmouth was tragically abandoned on Saturday afternoon following the death of a supporter after a medical emergency in the crowd.
Match halted as tragedy unfolds at The Valley
The fixture, which kicked off at 12:30 pm on Saturday, 6th December 2025, was stopped in the 12th minute after attention was drawn to an incident in The Covered End. Players from both sides remained on the pitch initially before being sent to the dressing rooms. The game was subsequently postponed.
In a statement released later that day, Charlton Athletic confirmed the devastating news that the supporter had passed away in hospital. The club expressed its gratitude to its own staff, first responders, and the understanding shown by Portsmouth's players, staff, and all fans in attendance.
Football community unites in grief
Former Charlton and Chelsea defender Scott Minto was among the first to lead the tributes. The 54-year-old, an academy graduate who made 180 league appearances for the Addicks before a £875,000 move to Chelsea in 1994, shared a heartfelt message on Instagram.
"My heartfelt condolences to the Charlton supporter's family and friends following the medical emergency at today's game," Minto wrote.
His sentiments were echoed by current members of Nathan Jones's squad, who shared the club's official statement on their own social media channels. Midfielder Sonny Carey responded with a prayer and red heart emoji, while teammate Terry Taylor called it "Horrible news."
Club captain Greg Docherty's emotional message
Club captain Greg Docherty posted a powerful statement, saying, "Absolutely devastating news... from all of the players at the club our thoughts are with his family and friends through this extremely difficult time." Fellow player Karoy Anderson also shared his condolences.
The match had been a significant occasion, marking the highest attendance for a Charlton-Portsmouth game at The Valley in nearly 20 years. The fixture will be rearranged for a later date this season.
Charlton Athletic's statement concluded by sending the club's "heartfelt condolences" to the supporter's family and friends. The team is next scheduled to play at The Valley on Tuesday night against Middlesbrough.
