Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson Apologizes for Second Red Card in Five Matches as Teammate Urges Improvement
Nicolas Jackson Apologizes After Costly Red Card in Chelsea’s Club World Cup Defeat
[Image: Jackson’s red card challenge vs. Flamengo]
Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson issued a heartfelt apology to fans and teammates after receiving a straight red card just four minutes after coming on as a substitute in Friday’s 3-1 Club World Cup loss to Flamengo. The dismissal marked his second red card in 40 days, following a Premier League suspension for a send-off against Newcastle in May.
The incident occurred when Jackson raked his studs down Flamengo defender Ayrton Lucas’ shin during a challenge, prompting an immediate red card. Chelsea, who had led early through Pedro Neto’s goal, collapsed defensively after Jackson’s exit, conceding twice before halftime. Wallace Yan sealed Flamengo’s victory late, leaving Chelsea needing a draw against ES Tunis to advance from Group D.
Jackson’s Emotional Apology
[Image: Jackson’s Instagram post]
Taking to Instagram post-match, Jackson wrote: “I want to say sorry… I let you all down. Another red card, and I’m so angry at myself. It wasn’t intentional, but I take full responsibility. I’ll come back stronger.” Teammate Marc Cucurella called the foul “bad luck” but urged the striker to mature: “He’s young and needs to improve. We’ll miss him next game.”
Criticism and Consequences
[Image: John Obi Mikel analyzing the incident]
Former Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel slammed the “stupid, stupid mistake” on DAZN: “What was he thinking? Doing this in crucial games hurts the team.” Manager Enzo Maresca offered little comment, stating bluntly, “It was a red card. Nothing to say.”
Jackson’s suspension hands an opportunity to £32m summer signing Liam Delap, who started against Flamengo but was replaced by Jackson before the costly substitution.
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