Charlton fan dies after medical emergency during game against Portsmouth

By Canadian Press on December 6, 2025.

LONDON (AP) — A soccer fan died following a medical emergency that forced the postponement of a second-division match between Charlton and Portsmouth on Saturday.

The game was halted after 12 minutes as the fan received treatment. Charlton said later the fan had died at a local hospital.

“The club are devastated to report that a Charlton Athletic supporter has died following a medical emergency during today’s game at The Valley against Portsmouth,” the English club said in a statement. “Everyone at the club sends their heartfelt condolences to the supporter’s family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.”

The Championship game at Charlton’s stadium was a 12.30 p.m. kickoff. It was halted when a home supporter in the lower tier of the Covered End stand required medical help.

Fans had signaled to referee Matthew Donohue that there was a serious problem.

The players initially waited on the field but after six minutes were instructed by the referee to leave.

Paramedics attended to the supporter, who left on a stretcher.

An announcement was made at at 1.30 p.m. that the game would not continue.

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AP soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer

The Associated Press