Leif Davis’ Red Card Challenges Arsenal Ahead of Champions League Semi-Final

IPSWICH, England — Leif Davis of Ipswich Town was shown a straight red card for a dangerous tackle on Arsenal‘s Bukayo Saka during their Premier League match on April 20, 2025. The incident occurred just 32 minutes into the game, leaving Ipswich to play with 10 men while trailing 2-0.

Davis, the Tractor Boys’ left-back, made a reckless challenge by raking his studs down Saka’s leg. Referee Chris Kavanagh had a clear view of the incident and promptly issued the red card, a decision that was confirmed after a brief VAR review due to serious foul play deemed to endanger the safety of an opponent.

A statement from the Premier League Match Centre on X (formerly Twitter) confirmed the decision: “The referee’s call of red card to Davis for serious foul play was checked and confirmed by VAR – the challenge was considered dangerous.” Despite the severity of the tackle, Davis managed to apologize to Saka as he exited the field.

Fans in the stadium held their breath as Saka writhed in pain after the challenge, causing concern for his availability in Arsenal’s upcoming Champions League semi-final. He eventually played out the first half but was substituted in the 57th minute, raising alarms for his fitness ahead of crucial matches.

Piers Morgan voiced his outrage on social media, stating, “Disgusting tackle by Davis that could have ended Saka’s season. And now Ipswich fans are loudly booing the victim, not their thug. Pathetic clowns.” Others echoed similar sentiments, expressing their worry for Saka’s condition.

Fortunately for Arsenal fans, Saka returned to the pitch and continued playing after receiving medical treatment. One fan declared, “Saka so, so lucky he’s not been seriously hurt there. Horrible tackle. No intention but to hurt Saka. A player who just wanted to get himself off the pitch.” Arsenal has already felt the absence of Saka this season, as he has missed 19 games due to a previous hamstring injury, only returning to action last month.

With Davis sent off, Arsenal took full advantage of the situation, leading 2-0 after two early goals from Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli. The match was dominated by the Gunners, who were aiming to secure a vital win to keep their title hopes alive while simultaneously attempting to fend off Liverpool’s impending claim to the Premier League title.

Ipswich’s misfortunes continued as the crowd reacted negatively towards Saka, who was booed whenever he touched the ball, with fans cheering for Davis despite the foul play. Social media also lit up with criticism about the crowd’s behavior, marking a clear divide between the two sets of supporters. One user commented, “Clapping Leif Davis off and booing Saka highlights exactly why the majority of football fans can’t be objective. Genuine madness to see Saka as the villain here.”

Davis’ sending off changed the course of the match for Arsenal, who performed with confidence in their pursuit of victory. The north London club is looking ahead to their Champions League semi-final later in the month, where they will face PSG at the Emirates Stadium.

As the final whistle blew, Arsenal secured the victory over Ipswich, keeping their points tally intact as the race to the Premier League title heats up. With the win, they aim to build momentum heading into their crucial Champions League matches.