Italy legend Leonardo Bonucci has gone viral for a brutal challenge on former England Women's captain Steph Houghton during Sunday's Soccer Aid match.

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• Bonucci did not hold back in charity match
• Went flying into Steph Houghton with sliding tackle
• Former England star left needing treatment

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  WHAT HAPPENED?

  Bonucci was part of the World XI team that beat England 5-4 in Sunday's Soccer Aid match at Old Trafford. The Italy legend may have hung up his professional boots only last year but showed he has lost none of his competitive edge with a brutal challenge on former England Women's captain Steph Houghton. Bonucci left Houghton in a heap, and needing treatment, but was quick to put the ball out of play so she could receive some attention.

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  THE BIGGER PICTURE

  Footage of the challenge quickly went viral on social media and left many fans bemused. Supporter @amit_mavar wrote: "Bonucci Not about the Woke life," while @SStaniford posted: "Bonucci doesn't care! He's Italian, he's Defending everyday of the week." And @Treborchamp added: "Proper challenge. Houghton can take it and wouldn’t want it any other way."

• WHAT BONUCCI SAID

  Bonucci was quick to react after the match, with the two players still on good terms despite the clash. The former Juventus star posted a picture of the pair on social media along with the caption: "She's still alive!!" Houghton responded with the words "My guy."

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  WHAT NEXT

  Bonucci ended the night celebrating as the World XI emerged victorious. The former Italy international could also soon be back to work on a permanent basis. He has been tipped to take up a coaching role with the Azzurri as part of new manager Gennaro Gattuso's staff.

Tags: Futebol
Category: News