- The game between Ajax and RKC Waalwijk was abandoned on Saturday
- RKC Waalwijk goalkeeper Etienne Vaessen collapsed, with players in tears
The game between RKC Waalwijk and Ajax was abandoned after RKC goalkeeper Etienne Vaessen collapsed, leaving players in tears.
Ajax wrote on X: ‘The match has been temporarily halted due to an apparently serious medical situation. We are thinking of you, Etienne.’
RKC wrote: ‘Dear RKC members, The match has finally been stopped. As soon as we know more, we will get back to you. Thanks for now and have a good trip home.’
Ajax later wrote: ‘This is about more than football. Praying you’re okay, Etienne.’
According to ESPN, Vaessen was resuscitated on the pitch and was carried inside for further treatment before being taken to hospital.
Medical staff entered the pitch at the Mandemakers Stadium to attend to Vaessen.
Players surrounded Vaessen to prevent fans from seeing him being treated.
Vaessen was hurt following a collision with an opponent as he was caught by Ajax’s Brian Brobbey.
Ajax had been leading 3-2 when the game was suspended, with Steven Berghuis having put his side ahead.
Vaessen, 28, has spent his entire senior career at RKC Waalwijk having made his debut for the club in 2016.