PRAGUE — Republic of Ireland midfielder Sammie Szmodics was taken off the field on a stretcher after losing consciousness due to a significant collision with an opponent during a World Cup qualification playoff match against Czechia on Thursday.
Szmodics collided with Czech player Stepán Chaloupek while both were attempting to reach a high ball. He fell to the ground instantly and appeared to exhibit involuntary movements of his arms.
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Medical personnel attended to Szmodics on the field for several minutes before he was placed on a stretcher with support for his head and neck. Supporters sang and applauded as he was taken off.
“He was knocked out cold,” Ireland coach Heimir Hallgrímsson stated. “At least he’s conscious now. He will remain here tonight.”
Hallgrímsson expressed hope that Szmodics would be able to return home on Friday.
Szmodics, who plays for Derby in England, had been on the pitch for less than two minutes after coming off the bench for Ireland in the 115th minute of extra time prior to the incident. He was substituted by Harvey Vale, who was making his debut for Ireland.
With the score tied at 2-2 after extra time, the match proceeded to a penalty shootout, which the Czech team won 4-3. Czechia is now one game away from its first World Cup appearance since 2006, while Ireland’s 24-year quest for World Cup qualification continues.
