Munich (Germany) (AFP) – France defender Benjamin Pavard revealed he briefly lost consciousness during the world champions’ 1-0 win over Germany at Euro 2020, but still managed to finish the game.
Les Bleus made a winning start at the European Championship as a first-half own goal by Germany defender Mats Hummels separated the sides in Munich on Tuesday.
However, France’s Bayern Munich defender Pavard was poleaxed in the second half in a collision with Germany left-back Robin Gosens and needed treatment on the pitch.
“I had quite a shock,” said Pavard. “I was a bit knocked out for 10 to 15 seconds. After that, I felt better.”
The 25-year-old played the full 90 minutes and it remains to be seen whether he features in France’s next Group F game, against Hungary on Saturday.
All 24 teams at the European Championship have signed a “concussion charter” designed to improve the care of players during games.
Player safety fears are high on the agenda after Denmark midfielder Christian Eriksen suffered a cardiac arrest during his country’s opening defeat to Finland.
The Inter Milan player is recovering in hospital after his ordeal.
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