Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Michael Duberry Says He Played 1998 Cup Winners’ Cup Final With Bell’s Palsy

The former Chelsea defender recounted the episode on the SACKED! podcast published with The Brain Charity.

Overview

  • Duberry said he was diagnosed with Bell’s palsy about two weeks before the final in Stockholm, leaving one side of his face immobile.
  • He recalled being taken out of the side by manager Gianluca Vialli to recover before proving his fitness to start the match.
  • He completed the game as Chelsea beat Stuttgart 1-0, with Gianfranco Zola scoring the winner.
  • He shared the account publicly on the SACKED! podcast in an episode released in partnership with The Brain Charity.
  • He described Bell’s palsy as “in essence, a mini-stroke” affecting facial muscles, presenting the night as a personal test of resilience.