Former Italy centre-back Leonardo Bonucci stunned fans at Old Trafford on Sunday, 15, June, 2025, after launching into a fierce sliding tackle on ex-England Women’s captain Steph Houghton during the 2025 Soccer Aid charity match.
The uncompromising challenge came late in the match as Houghton chased a loose ball down England’s right flank.
While the former Manchester City defender approached with measured caution, Bonucci showed no restraint, lunging in with trademark aggression, winning the ball but flattening Houghton in the process.
The 37-year-old Italian’s momentum carried directly through Houghton, who hit the turf visibly hurt.
The game was halted as Bonucci, immediately sensing the impact, signaled for medical attention.
Medical staff rushed to Houghton’s aid and attended to her for several minutes while the crowd watched in concerned silence.
Thankfully, the ex-Lionesses skipper recovered enough to finish the game, though the pain was evident.
The match, which ended in a dramatic 5-4 win for the World XI, was meant to raise funds for UNICEF and showcase football in a light-hearted, entertaining way, but Bonucci’s challenge reminded many of his famously rugged approach from his playing days.
Clips of the incident quickly went viral across social media, sparking a storm of reactions.
Some viewers slammed the tackle as needlessly aggressive in a charity match, while others defended the Italian’s competitive spirit and commitment.
Bonucci retired from professional football in 2024 following a stint with Turkish side Fenerbahce.
His decorated career includes nine Serie A titles with Juventus and a starring role in Italy’s Euro 2020 triumph.
Watch the video of the tackle below:
Bonucci Not about the Woke life 🤣🤣🤣#SoccerAid pic.twitter.com/CuQVwmL5RM
— Amit (@amit_mavar) June 15, 2025
FKA/MA
Meanwhile, watch the latest news in Twi on GhanaWeb TV below:
