Leonardo Bonucci goes viral after brutal challenge on former Lioness at Soccer Aid | OneFootball

Italy and Juventus legend Leonardo Bonucci has gone viral for a brutal tackle on former Lioness Steph Houghton at Soccer Aid.

Usually Soccer Aid is a charity event that see’s celebrities and former pro’s alike take each other on in one of the biggest stadiums in England, all to raise money for UNICEF.

However deep in the second half of this year’s event, Steph Houghton was scythed down by Leonardo Bonucci as she broke through on goal for England and there was nothing friendly about the challenge.

Although she took a minute to get up off the turf, Houghton was fine and able to carry on playing the remainder of the game.

Much to the relief of viewers, Houghton confirmed she was fine after the game and she even posted a picture of her and Bonucci together on Instagram with the caption: “She’s still alive!”

Who is Steph Houghton?

Steph Houghton is a former WSL winner and England superstar who retired from football in 2024 following a 22-year career.

During her career, Houghton played for Arsenal and Leeds but it was with Manchester City where the central defender found her home for 12 years.

Houghton won 16 domestic trophies throughout her career, including one WSL with City and two with Arsenal.

It was the defender’s international career that she will be remembered for though, as Houghton goes down as one of the most iconic names to ever lead the Lionesses.

Houghton featured for England in 121 games and she was named captain of the team in 2014. The three-time WSL winner captained England to a bronze medal at the 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup and semi-final appearances at UEFA Women’s Euro 2017 and the 2019 World Cup.

Although she was unable to lead England to any major successes during her career, Houghton played a crucial role in developing the Lionesses into the team they are today.

After an incredible career in football, Houghton was inducted into the National Football Museum Hall of Fame in 2024 and into the WSL Hall of Fame this year.

What happened in Soccer Aid?

Soccer Aid was a high-scoring affair once again this year, and after a fairly dull first half the game exploded into action during the second period.

Goals from England icons Wayne Rooney, Toni Duggan and Jermaine Defoe had the hosts 3-0 up with just over half an hour left to play, but the Rest of the World staged an improbable late comeback.

Manchester City and Argentina legend Carlos Tevez somehow managed to net four goals in the space of 15 minutes and a late winner from Big Zuu saw the team complete a late turnaround to win their first Soccer Aid since 2023.

The game once again raised a new record figure for UNICEF, with £15,280,163 raised for the charity in 2025.