High-stakes Dutch league match halted as player suffers severe concussion in collision

The Eredivisie match between RKC Waalwijk and Ajax was halted in the 84th minute on Saturday due to a collision between RKC goalkeeper Etienne Vaessen and an Ajax player, which resulted in Vaessen losing consciousness. In a statement issued by the club on Sunday, it was reported that Vaessen had a favorable night and was making progress towards his recovery.

"It is crucial for him and his family to have the necessary time and privacy to recover in tranquility over the upcoming hours and days," stated the message. During the high-stakes Dutch league game, with his team behind 3-2, Vaessen collided with Ajax's Brian Brobbey while attempting a save. Following the impact to his head, the RKC goalkeeper remained motionless on the ground.

Medical staff immediately attended to Vaessen, and screens were erected around him to shield the public's view of the injured goalkeeper. Players from both clubs, some overcome with emotion, surrounded him for support. While still on the field, the 28-year-old regained consciousness and was subsequently transported away on a stretcher. Both teams were escorted into the tunnel, and the match was later canceled.

RKC Waalwijk confirmed on Saturday that Vaessen had regained consciousness and was taken to the hospital for further examination.

Following the match, RKC director Frank van Mosselveld informed the ESPN broadcast that Etienne had been briefly unconscious.

"Our medical team immediately initiated resuscitation, but it appears that his heart was not the issue. He regained consciousness upon leaving the field, although he was disoriented regarding his location," he remarked. Ajax stated that the outcome of the remaining match remains uncertain, as of Saturday.