Charlton Athletic are ‘devastated’ after a supporter died during their Championship clash with Portsmouth at The Valley.
The match was suspended on 12 minutes as medical staff treated a fan who fell ill in the home end of the stadium.
The players returned to the dressing rooms as the supporter received medical attention before fans inside the ground were told the Championship fixture had been postponed.
Charlton subsequently confirmed the fan had passed away, announcing in a statement: ‘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 match was halted in the 12th minute while the supporter received treatment and was subsequently postponed.
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‘The club would like to thank the Charlton staff and first responders who did everything they could, but sadly the supporter later passed away in hospital.
‘The club are grateful to supporters in attendance and the Portsmouth players and staff for their patience and understanding as this tragedy unfolded.
‘Everyone at the club sends their heartfelt condolences to the supporter’s family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.’
A statement from Charlton’s opponents added: ‘Portsmouth Football Club are devastated to learn that the Charlton supporter taken ill at today’s game has passed away.
‘Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with their family and friends at this difficult time.’
Charlton were celebrating the 33rd anniversary of the club’s return to The Valley against Portsmouth but those celebrations were overshadowed by the tragic death of a supporter.
Before kick-off, a minute’s applause was held in memory of former players Billy Bonds and Marvin Hinton, who recently passed away.
Charlton sat 17th in the Championship table before Saturday’s fixtures, while Portsmouth were in the relegation zone.
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