Hungary coach speaks after collapsing during match

Monday, November 18, 2024 - Hungary assistant coach and former captain Adam Szalai has reassured fans of his well-being after collapsing during his country’s Nations League match against the Netherlands on Saturday, November 16.

The incident occurred just seven minutes into the game at the Johan Cruyff Stadium in Amsterdam. The 36-year-old suddenly collapsed while on the bench, prompting immediate medical attention. Team staff shielded him from public view as his legs visibly twitched on the ground.

The match was paused for 13 minutes as Szalai was rushed to a nearby hospital by ambulance. Later that evening, Szalai took to social media to thank fans for their messages, confirming he was recovering well.

“Adam is conscious, can talk, and all is in order,” Hungary’s head coach Marco Rossi told reporters during the post-match press conference. Rossi also explained that the referee had consulted the Hungarian team about continuing the match, and the players unanimously decided to proceed.

Hungary captain Dominik Szoboszlai gathered his teammates on the pitch to motivate them before the game resumed.

Szalai, who was appointed assistant coach earlier this year, is a celebrated figure in Hungarian football. As a player, he earned 86 international caps and scored 26 goals for his country. He also enjoyed a distinguished club career in Germany, representing teams like Mainz, Schalke 04, and Hoffenheim.

Despite the emotional disruption, the Netherlands maintained focus and secured a 4-0 victory, guaranteeing their spot in the Nations League quarterfinals next March. Fans worldwide expressed relief at Szalai’s recovery and praised the professionalism of both teams during the incident.