The football world remains in a state of shock following the scary incident involving Christian Eriksen during Denmark’s group clash against Finland in Euro 2020.
The 29 year-old collapsed on the pitch at the Parken Stadium in Copenhagen just before halftime, requiring CPR treatment. Thankfully, he was resuscitated then taken to the hospital, where he is in stable condition according to both UEFA and the Denmark FA.
Just hours later, though, the Danes found themselves back on the pitch to finish the match, which they ultimately lost 1-0 due to a 59th minute goal from Finland’s Joel Pohjanpalo.
Speaking just after full-time, an emotional Kasper Hijulmand, the manager of Denmark, revealed that UEFA gave his team two options following the traumatic episode: finish the game tonight or tomorrow afternoon.
“We had two options: to play the game today or tomorrow at 12pm and everyone agreed to play today,” he said today via the BBC.
“Though, there wasn’t any pressure from UEFA to finish the match today. The players couldn’t imagine not being able to sleep tonight and then having to get on the bus and come in again tomorrow. Honestly it was best to get it over with.”
“You can’t play a game with such feelings. We tried to win. It was incredible they managed to go out and try to play the second half.”
“It was a really tough evening, on which we’ve all been reminded what the most important things in life are. It’s meaningful relationships. It’s those people who are close to us, it’s family and friends.”
