Evan Ndicka: Udinese v Roma encounter abandoned after defender collapses during Serie A match - Eurosport

The game between Roma and Udinese in Italy's top football league, Serie A, came to a halt when Evan Ndicka, a player from Roma's defense, collapsed on the field.

When the score was equal at 1-1 and there were only 18 minutes left of normal time, the Ivory Coast player fell over without being touched and had to be carried off the field on a stretcher.

After discussing the matter for a duration of 10 minutes, the two teams collaborated with Luca Pairetto, who was the referee, and concluded that the game should be stopped. This decision was appreciated by the fans in Stadio Friuli who showed their approval by clapping.

On Sunday, Roma's players made a visit to Ndicka in the hospital where he will continue to stay for more examinations. The news from the visit was positive and uplifting.

On social media, a message accompanied by a photo of the defender flexing his bicep stated that Evan is feeling much improved and in a positive mood. He still needs to undergo some tests in the hospital and doctors will keep an eye on him.

Udinese was initially leading the game with a goal from ex-Watford player Roberto Pereyra. However, Romelu Lukaku managed to level the score for the team coached by Daniele De Rossi.

Ndicka joined Giallorossi for free in the previous summer after starting his career at a French club, Auxerre, coming from Eintracht Frankfurt.

He was also a member of the Ivory Coast team that triumphed at the Africa Cup of Nations in 2023. During the competition, he played in every match and stayed on the field for the entirety of each game. The Elephants emerged victorious with a 2-1 win over Nigeria in the final.

On Thursday, Roma is set to compete in their UEFA Europa League quarter-final second leg match against AC Milan at their home stadium. This comes after Roma managed to secure a 1-0 win in the first leg match at San Siro.