Denmark makes new rule for all players after Christian Eriksen’s collapse on the field
Denmark has decided to introduce a new rule for all its players after Christian Eriksen collapsed on the pitch for the second time on Sunday.
Eriksen suddenly fell to the ground, clutching his chest in the 65th minute during Denmark’s friendly match against Ukraine in Odense. He received medical help right there on the field for about 13 minutes while his teammates formed a protective huddle around him.
Denmark’s doctor confirmed that Eriksen regained consciousness and stood up before being taken to the hospital by ambulance. However, the game was stopped at 75 minutes, with Denmark leading 2-1.
Eriksen had a similar heart incident back in 2021 during Euro 2020 while playing against Finland, but he was revived and continued his career. Denmark’s players finished that game but looked very upset, and the same feeling was clear again on Sunday at Nature Energy Park.
After the match, players from both teams clapped for the fans in an emotional moment. Knowing how this might affect their players, Denmark has now told them not to travel home alone after games. Manager Brian Riemer will also check on his players to see how they are doing.
According to Danish Football Association director Peter Moller, “We have made sure no one travels alone. They either go home with family or with teammates. Brian will also be calling each player soon to ask how they are and if they need anything.”
Riemer shared that he’s “looking forward” to seeing Eriksen again and plans to do so as soon as possible. Team captain Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, who has worked with Eriksen for a long time, said he was left “in shock” after Eriksen’s second heart episode. He told Danish broadcaster TV 2, “I think I need to see my children and my family. They are who I want to be with right now.”
After his first cardiac arrest, Eriksen had a small device called an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) put in to help monitor his heart and deliver a shock if needed. Cardiologist Sadi Raza explained on social media that Eriksen’s ICD might have shocked him this time, which can feel like being hit hard in the chest. The device will be checked soon to understand exactly what happened.
Eriksen traveled to the hospital with his wife, Sabrina, after signaling to his teammates. He hasn’t yet shared any comments about his second collapse.