The match between Ajax Amsterdam and VVV Venlo in the Dutch Eerste Divisie was canceled in the 84th minute on Saturday after VVV goalkeeper Etienne Vaessen collided with an opposing player and fell to the ground. Vaessen collapsed following an impact with Ajax forward Brian Brobbey, causing panic among his teammates who rushed to seek medical assistance. Players held up curtains and barriers around the goalkeeper to shield him from the public's view, and tears were evident in the eyes of players from both teams as a defibrillator was brought onto the field.
Vaessen lay motionless on the ground for several minutes before being taken off on a stretcher, while both teams went to the dressing rooms before the match was called off after discussions. VVV manager Frank van Mosselveld told NOS about an hour after the incident: "Etienne was unconscious for a while." He added, "Our medical staff started resuscitating him immediately, but it does not seem to be a heart issue. He regained consciousness again when he left the field but did not know where he was." The Dutch newspaper Telegraaf reported that Vaessen, 28, was taken to the hospital. Ajax was leading 3-2 when the match was halted.
