Netherlands defender Jan Paul van Hecke sustained a bloody head injury on Monday night during a World Cup Round of 32 match against Morocco in Monterrey, Mexico.
The incident occurred when Manchester United full-back Noussair Mazraoui accidentally struck the top of the 26-year-old's head with his cleats while landing from a defensive clearance.
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Medical personnel quickly treated the laceration above Van Hecke's right temple with staples, allowing the center-back to return to action and help preserve the defense alongside Virgil van Dijk.
This injury marks the second physical setback for the defender during the tournament, following a previous facial injury sustained during the opening match against Japan.
According to reports from Yahoo Sports, the initial collision left the player with a significant black eye that temporarily impaired his sight.
"He kicked me in the eye with all his might," said Van Hecke. "I was heading for the ball, so I thought something might happen.
At some point, it definitely affected my vision. I can't see very well on that side right now."
He added: "I hope it will get a little better in a few days.
I think it will swell up a bit more later, but that's also part of the game."
Despite the physical toll, the center-back has played every minute of the tournament while completing a £52 million transfer from Brighton and Hove Albion to Tottenham Hotspur.
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