A moment of shock gripped Odense as former Tottenham and Manchester United midfielder Christian Eriksen collapsed during Denmark’s friendly against Ukraine on Sunday. The match was halted immediately following the incident.
Play stopped in the 65th minute as medical teams rushed onto the pitch. Soon after, the game was officially abandoned.
Reassuringly, the Danish Football Association confirmed the midfielder regained consciousness quickly. He later walked off the field with assistance.
“Christian is doing well and walked off the pitch by himself,” said team doctor Morten Boesen.
The 34-year-old has a documented cardiac history. He suffered a cardiac arrest during Euro 2020, prompting life-saving intervention.
Since then, he has played with an Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator. The device monitors and corrects dangerous heart rhythms.
“As I see it, the pacemaker responded as it should.” Boesen explained the device functioned correctly.
“He was briefly unconscious, but regained consciousness very quickly. He will now undergo further examinations at the hospital,” Boesen added.
Christian Eriksen collapse reignites concern but medical response and ICD device ensure player safety
The incident drew haunting parallels with his collapse five years earlier. Once again, players formed a protective circle around him. Medical staff acted swiftly, earning praise from teammates and officials.
Denmark captain Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg described the moment vividly. He recalled turning to see Eriksen falling suddenly.
ALSO READ:
- Christian Eriksen: Denmark lost but football won
- Czech Republic end 20-year wait for World Cup appearance with shootout win
- Arne Slot turns down Fulham after leaving Liverpool
“[Everyone] reacted super-fast and with respect,” Hojbjerg commended the courage of those providing immediate care.
“I can’t say much more than that you get a shock,” he also stated.
Denmark coach Brian Riemer later addressed both squads.
Premier League Scores & Fixtures | League Tables | Football Prediction Giveaway Terms
“The most important thing is that Christian is doing well and he is,” his words reinforced collective relief.
In a gesture of appreciation, Eriksen even sent a message to teammates from hospital.
