Violence has no place in football, but through the years we have seen some horror tackles and bizarre fights take place. The Fan Park Crew decided to look at a few violent incidents that have happened on the pitch.  

De Jong Fly-kicks Alonso

The Dutch international was never one to pull out of a challenge, and this particular kick in the 2010 World Cup final was one of the most blatant challenges I’ve seen take place on the football field. Nigel De Jong seemed focused on the ball as he hung his leg in the air, but instead caught Xabi Alonso in the chest with all of his studs showing. Alonso continued but De Jong was sent to the showers, and Spain won 1-0.

Kieron Dyer Vs Lee Bowyer

After sharing a few frustrations, the two teammates approached each other in anger, and after that, the football world saw one of the most bizarre incidents in the game! The two were head-to-head when the first punch was thrown and after their physical spat, both midfielders saw red.

Shawcross Breaks Ramsey’s Leg

In 2010, the Stoke City defender’s touch took the ball further away from him than intended, and after Aaron Ramsey got to the loose ball, he wiped out the young Welsh midfielder with one of the dirtiest challenges I’ve seen. The tackle broke Ramsey’s right leg, and still angers Arsenal fans today.

Zidane’s Head-butt

In the 2006 World Cup final, between France and Italy, the Real Madrid legend was angered by words from Italian defender Marco Materazzi, and reacted with a violent head-butt to his opponent’s chest. It was Zinedine Zidane’s last ever professional football match, as he announced his retirement plans months before.

Diego Maradona Vs Athletic Bilbao

The Argentine’s Barcelona team were losing 1-0 in a Spanish Cup final to Bilbao, and when the final whistle blew, Maradona decided to go on a rampage. The legendary forward was seen fly-sicking serval opposition players, while one his kicks knocked a player out cold.

Can you name any other violent incidents that have happened on the field?