Nabil Bentaleb Scores in Remarkable Return to Football After Cardiac Arrest

The Algerian midfielder made his comeback for OSC Lille, scoring just minutes after being substituted in, nine months after suffering a cardiac arrest and receiving a pacemaker.

• Nabil Bentaleb, former Schalke 04 player, returned to professional football nine months after collapsing due to a cardiac arrest during a private game in June 2024.
• Bentaleb, now playing for OSC Lille, scored his first goal for the club just four minutes after being substituted into the match against Stade Rennes in the 76th minute.
• The 30-year-old midfielder had undergone significant recovery and was cleared to return to competition by the French football federation's medical commission last week.
• Lille coach Bruno Génésio described Bentaleb's comeback as a 'film-worthy story,' highlighting his resilience and the collective support he received during his recovery.
• Bentaleb's goal contributed to Lille's 2-0 victory, marking a triumphant moment for the player and an emotional milestone in his career.

7 Articles

Süddeutsche Zeitung Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung Der Tagesspiegel Westdeutsche Allgemeine Zeitung Die Rheinpfalz WELT DER SPIEGEL