Christian Eriksen collapsed during Denmark’s 2-1 friendly win over Ukraine in Odense. The 34-year-old midfielder clutched his chest in the 65th minute and fell unconscious. He regained consciousness within seconds and walked off the pitch unaided.
Denmark team doctor Morten Boesen confirmed Eriksen was taken to Odense University Hospital. The pacemaker fitted after his 2020 cardiac arrest responded correctly. Boesen said Eriksen asked him to relay a message to teammates: “I’m OK.” Further tests will determine the cause of the incident.
Eriksen’s collapse mirrors his Euro 2020 cardiac arrest. He required CPR at Parken Stadium before having a pacemaker implanted. Serie A rules barred him from playing with the device, forcing a move to Brentford. He later joined Manchester United and Wolfsburg.
Denmark manager Brian Riemer revealed Eriksen waved to teammates as he left the pitch. Wolfsburg, Tottenham and Manchester United issued statements wishing him a swift recovery. The match was abandoned after the incident.
Eriksen’s condition stabilised quickly. Danish Football Union stated he is “conscious and doing well under the circumstances.” The incident raises fresh concerns about athlete cardiac safety protocols in professional football.
