Danish midfielder hospitalised after on-field collapse in friendly against Ukraine; doctors say pacemaker responded as expected.

Image: The New York Times

COPENHAGEN: Denmark midfielder Christian Eriksen is in “good spirits” after collapsing during a friendly match against Ukraine, according to the Danish national team doctor.

The 34-year-old, who previously suffered a cardiac arrest during the European Championship in 2021, fell to the ground in the 64th minute of the match in Odense.

Medical staff quickly rushed onto the pitch as players from both teams formed a protective circle around him to shield the scene from cameras.

The match was subsequently abandoned, and Eriksen was taken to hospital after walking off the pitch with assistance.

Team doctor Morten Boesen said Eriksen had been briefly unconscious, but confirmed that his pacemaker functioned as intended.

He added that he had spoken to Eriksen and that the player was recovering well with his family and expected to be discharged soon.

Denmark captain Pierre-Emile Højbjerg described the moment as shocking, praising the immediate response from medical staff and teammates.

Coach Brian Riemer also called the incident distressing for players, staff, and opponents, noting his personal connection with Eriksen from their time together at Brentford.

Eriksen, who returned to professional football after his 2021 collapse, has since played for clubs including Manchester United and Brentford FC, and currently plays in Germany for VfL Wolfsburg.

Former Denmark striker Nicklas Bendtner described the incident as “really awful” but expressed relief that Eriksen was conscious and able to leave the pitch.

The Denmark national team has confirmed it is in regular contact with Eriksen and monitoring his condition closely.