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.
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.
Football.
london reported that Netherlands manager Ronald Koeman granted the defender permission to finalize the Premier League move during the international campaign.
"There have been a lot of calls and of course I have not been involved the whole time on this topic," said Van Hecke.
"It was important for me and the head coach gave me the time to focus on this transfer.
I am grateful for this because this is a great step forwards in my professional career."
"I am pleased to play for my old club. It boosts my confidence as well.
But now I will play for one of the most important clubs in the UK. It is important for my future.
But now I'm focused on the World Cup here," he concluded.
