Paris, France – February 18, 2025 – Nabil Bentaleb made his long-awaited return to professional football, scoring his first goal in a year as he came back after suffering a sudden cardiac arrest during training. The midfielder, now aged 29, played for Lille, winning 2-1 over Nantes, and in an emotional comeback, the lad was given ovations from fans and opponents alike.
He fainted from a sudden cardiac arrest during training in April 2024. The Algerian international was taken to the hospital, where he underwent surgery and had an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) fitted to monitor his heartbeat. Months of recovery and medical examinations later, the doctor had given him the all-clear to get back into professional football earlier this year.
Supporters and players were delighted with his return to the pitch on Sunday, and the afternoon was capped off when he netted Lille’s second goal from outside the box into the far corner. As he celebrated with his teammates, even opposition players joined in the applause.
Bentaleb expressed gratitude to play again after the match. “This is a dream come true. One year ago I didn’t even know if I would see the field ever again. I thank my doctors, my family, and all those who believed in me.”
Lille boss Paulo Fonseca congratulated Bentaleb on his determination. “His comeback has been amazing. To return from such a painful experience and, at the same time, play to this standard is motivating for all of us.”
At Stade Pierre-Mauroy, Bentaleb was cheered on, with the crowd chanting his name in recognition of the midfielder’s extraordinary comeback. In a flurry of messages on social media, fellow players, clubs, and supporters congratulated him on his return.
Bentaleb is in the news following an incident replayed in football, such as Denmark’s Christian Eriksen, who made a successful return to professional football from a cardiac arrest sustained during Euro 2020. His return goes a long way in showing how much advancement has taken place in monitoring and treatment of cardiac health in sports.
Emotionally uplifting as it may be; however, the road ahead keeps Bentaleb focusing forward. “This is just the beginning. I want to support my club, make the most of every minute, and keep playing this beautiful game.” Bentaleb’s return may now be seen as a fitting boost to Lille as they seek to end the Ligue 1 season on a dizzying note, wresting an inspiration and a competitive edge from him in the season’s most important stretch.
