Hungary captain, Dominik Szoboszlai, urged UEFA to revise protocols after his teammate Barnabas Varga sustained a serious head injury. The horrific incident occurred during Hungary’s 1-0 victory over Scotland in the Group A clash at Euro 2024 on Sunday, June 23.
Varga was rendered unconscious following a collision with Scotland goalkeeper Angus Gunn, mandating critical medical intervention. Unfortunately, the paramedics were seen approaching the pitch very slowly. Notably, Szoboszlai reacted swiftly, grabbing the stretcher and making the medical staff run to his teammate. He then advocated for UEFA to execute modifications ensuring immediate medical attention for players in comparable circumstances.
“It looked bad, it was bad, it felt bad. I don’t really know the protocols or how it works, but if our doctors say we need someone immediately to help, then I don’t think they should walk. It’s not my decision, but I think we need to change something.
“Even if someone is on the ground, and you know that it was a big collision, then just go on [the pitch]. Even if the referee is saying don’t go on, just go on. And if you can see it’s nothing serious, then you can just go down and it’s finished. But seconds can help a lot,” he said.
Milos Kerkez issues quick update on Barnabas Varga’s condition
Milos Kerkez, Hungary defender, quickly provided an update on the forward’s health condition. He also expressed thankfulness for the support received from both the stadium and the country.
“Proud of everyone and thankful for the support in the stadium and the country! Our brother will be alright because he is strong,” Kerkez wrote on social media.
Meanwhile, man of the match Roland Sallai described the incident as a dreadful occurrence and dedicated the victory to the injured player.
“It was a terrible moment to see him like that. He’ll have to go through a minor operation, but we cross our fingers for him that he can return. Naturally, it was a terrible incident. Of course, we were fighting for him in the remaining minutes and this win is dedicated to him,” said Sallai.
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