Turkey Under-21 coach hospitalized after collapsing during match
Turkey Under-21 head coach Egemen Korkmaz was rushed to hospital on Tuesday after collapsing during his side’s European Championship qualifying fixture against Croatia in Osijek, reports BritPanorama.
The 43-year-old lost consciousness following an animated reaction to a red card decision at the Opus Arena. The match was subsequently called off. Players and coaching staff displayed visible concern as medical personnel attended to Korkmaz before he was transported by ambulance from the venue.
The Turkish Football Federation confirmed that Korkmaz had regained consciousness and is undergoing further medical assessment. The incident occurred approximately 34 minutes into the contest when Turkey’s Demir Ege Tiknaz was sent off after receiving a second caution. Korkmaz reacted furiously to the referee’s decision, dramatically removing his coat in frustration before slipping and hitting his head, prompting immediate alarm among those present.
Television cameras did not capture the fall itself, although footage showed the aftermath as an ambulance arrived on the scene. His players and backroom staff anxiously watched as he received emergency treatment at the pitch’s side. The federation released a statement outlining the circumstances of the incident, saying, “Our U21 National Team Head Coach, Egemen Korkmaz, lost consciousness after slipping and hitting his head on the ground in the 35th minute of today’s UEFA U21 European Championship group qualifying match against Croatia at the Opus Arena in Osijek.”
They added: “Korkmaz, who suffered swelling on his head due to the fall, received initial treatment from our medical team on the sidelines. He is conscious and has been taken to the hospital by ambulance for further examination. We wish him a speedy recovery.” Following the distressing scenes, both of Korkmaz’s former clubs swiftly offered their support. Fenerbahce stated, “We regretfully learned that Egemen Korkmaz, the Head Coach of our U21 National Team, fell ill during the match and was taken to the hospital.” Besiktas echoed these sentiments, expressing sorrow at the news and wishing him a swift return to full health.
Korkmaz enjoyed a successful playing career, claiming the Turkish Super Lig, Turkish Cup, and Turkish Super Cup while at Fenerbahce, where he played alongside Dirk Kuyt. He also represented Besiktas and earned nine caps for the Turkish national team, highlighting a career marked by notable achievements.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the pressures faced in competitive sports, where the line between passion and well-being can sometimes blur. Korkmaz’s immediate recovery is now the priority, leaving fans and colleagues hoping for a positive outcome amidst the chaos of the match.
