Hungary Coach Adam Szalai Reports Good Health Following On-Pitch Collapse

Hungary’s national team coach, Adam Szalai, has confirmed his well-being, stating he is “doing well,” following his collapse on Saturday during a Nations League fixture against the Netherlands. The incident led to a 13-minute suspension of play while he received pitchside medical attention. The game, held in Amsterdam, experienced a 13-minute stoppage after the 36-year-old coach fell ill during the seventh minute. A temporary medical tent was set up on the bench to provide initial treatment to Szalai before he was transported to a hospital. The scene visibly distressed captain Dominik Szoboszlai, a Liverpool midfielder, who was seen crying on the field. Szalai subsequently posted on Facebook, stating, “Thanks for the lots of messages, I’m doing well.” The Hungarian Football Association had previously reported on Friday night that the nation’s former international striker was “stable and conscious.” Szalai, who earned 86 international caps prior to his retirement from playing in 2023, was removed from the bench on a stretcher at the Johan Cruyff Arena before the contest recommenced. Upon the resumption of play, the Netherlands received a penalty following a review by the video assistant referee (VAR). Ajax forward Wout Weghorst successfully converted the spot-kick in the 21st minute, marking the hosts’ opening goal in their eventual 4-0 win with a celebration that involved sliding on his knees towards the corner flag. The celebration by the former Burnley and Manchester United attacker drew criticism, prompting him to later state: “I never thought for a moment that this could come across as unpleasant.” He further reflected, “In retrospect, you think, ‘would it have been more respectful to cheer less exuberantly?’ Let it be clear that his life is more important than my goal. I hope I don’t have to explain that to anyone.” Weghorst elaborated on the moment, explaining, “Taking a penalty is normally exciting but I think this was one of my most difficult penalties ever. When you score it, there is pure relief and release. That’s why I didn’t realise how I was cheering.” Netherlands captain Virgil van Dijk offered his perspective, commenting, “I didn’t think the celebration was exaggerated at all. Hungary made the choice to continue playing. Then you get on with playing the match.” This victory secured the Dutch team’s qualification for the Nations League quarter-finals.