Do you remember Nigel de Jong’s infamous kung-fu kick on Xabi Alonso in the 2010 World Cup final in South Africa? Despite Spain beating Netherlands thanks to Andrés Iniesta, the world was horrified by what many called a brutal assault on the then-midfielder, now Real Madrid coach.
A shockingly similar scene unfolded last night in Ligue 1, during the clash between Lyon and Monaco.
Horror challenge steals the headlines
Lyon claimed a 3–1 away victory, but the scoreline was quickly overshadowed by an unbelievable foul from Monaco midfielder Mamadou Coulibaly.
Coulibaly raised his leg dangerously high and struck his opponent in the head and neck with his studs, a challenge widely described as life-threatening. The referee had no hesitation, showing a straight red card for the brutal tackle.
Tagliafico sparks fear — then rises
The victim was Lyon’s Argentine defender Nicolás Tagliafico, who lay motionless on the pitch, causing moments of real fear among players, fans, and medical staff.
Thankfully, after treatment, Tagliafico got back on his feet and continued the match, though images of the incident have ignited outrage online, with many calling for a severe, example-setting suspension.
Table implications
The win moves Lyon to within two points of fourth place, the spot that secures a place in the Champions League qualifiers.
Monaco, meanwhile, suffered their third straight defeat and remain winless since late November, deepening a worrying slump.
The Coulibaly tackle is now expected to be reviewed by disciplinary authorities, as growing voices insist the incident should serve as a clear warning that extreme violence has no place in modern football.
