Christian Eriksen's implanted defibrillator saves him after collapse in Denmark‑Ukraine friendly

Danish midfielder Christian Eriksen collapsed in the 66th minute of the friendly match against Ukraine in Odense, prompting the game to be suspended. He felt a sudden chest pain, left the field on his own and was quickly attended by medical staff.

Eriksen, who suffered a cardiac arrest at Euro 2021, has an Implantable Cardioverter‑Defibrillator (ICD) implanted in his chest. The device detected a dangerous heart rhythm and delivered an electric shock, described by doctors as “like a punch in the chest,” restoring a normal rhythm and allowing him to walk off the pitch conscious. He was taken to Odense University Hospital for further observation and tests.

The incident highlighted the life‑saving role of the ICD for athletes with cardiac conditions. Eriksen, 34, currently plays for Manchester United and is reported to be “well” and under medical observation.