Wout Weghorst Reflects on Controversial Celebration After Hungary Coach’s Collapse

In response to criticism of his goal celebration during the Netherlands’ Nations League match against Hungary, Wout Weghorst said that his penalty “is secondary to life” following Adam Szalai’s collapse on the sidelines.

When Szalai passed out and needed emergency medical assistance, the tense meeting took a drastic turn. Weghorst celebrated with a knee-slide after converting a penalty a few minutes later, a move that was criticized for being deemed insensitive in light of the events that were taking on. Weghorst reflected on his behavior, admitting that he may have handled the situation differently and acknowledging the elevated emotions throughout the game.

Weghorst’s Explanation

Speaking to NOS, the Dutch striker shared his thoughts: “I don’t think I need to explain to anyone that my penalty is secondary to a life. I didn’t think about it for a moment during the match. The game goes on, and you have to switch your focus. But afterwards, it hits you—someone has just been resuscitated.”

Weghorst revealed that he visited Hungary’s dressing room at halftime to check on Szalai’s condition.

“I went to ask how things were going during halftime. When I returned to our dressing room, I heard everything was fine, and he was talking again. Thank God it’s all good.” he said.