Nabil Bentaleb Scores on Return After Cardiac Arrest

Former Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Nabil Bentaleb made a remarkable return to football, scoring a goal just eight months after suffering a cardiac arrest.

The 30-year-old Lille midfielder considered retiring after being hospitalized in June 2023 due to a heart attack. However, on Sunday, he completed his incredible comeback by scoring the opening goal in Lille’s 2-0 victory over Rennes.

Bentaleb Marks Emotional Return With Stunning Goal

Lille manager Bruno Genesio introduced Bentaleb with 15 minutes remaining, with the game still goalless. It took just four minutes for the Algerian international to make an impact, pouncing on a rebound to slot the ball home.

The emotional moment saw Bentaleb rush to celebrate with his teammates and coaching staff, who were visibly overjoyed. His goal set Lille on their way to victory, which was later sealed by Chuba Akpom in the 86th minute.

“A Story Worthy of a Movie” – Genesio Praises Bentaleb

Lille boss Genesio described the moment as “a story worthy of a film” and praised Bentaleb’s resilience:

“He deserved it because I don’t believe in luck—he believed in himself. It’s an incredible, wonderful story.”

Teammate Bafode Diakite echoed similar sentiments, calling it an explosion of emotion:

“This goes beyond football. It’s the story of a life. We’re all so happy for him.”

Bentaleb’s Fight to Return to Football

In June 2023, Lille confirmed that Bentaleb had been hospitalized due to an “illness”, later revealed to be a cardiac arrest. Doctors advised him to step away from football, but he instead followed the path of Christian Eriksen, who made a sensational return after his Euro 2020 cardiac arrest.

Bentaleb had a pacemaker fitted and spent months recovering before rejoining Lille training just last Thursday. Despite his short time back in training, Genesio showed faith in him, and it paid off in a moment that will be remembered in Lille’s history.

Bentaleb’s Career Journey & International Legacy

Born in Lille, Bentaleb started his youth career at the club before moving to Tottenham in 2012. He made 66 appearances for Spurs before joining Schalke in 2017, where he scored 19 goals in 107 games. He also had a loan spell at Newcastle United before returning to Ligue 1 with Angers and eventually signing for Lille in 2023.

On the international stage, Bentaleb has 66 caps for Algeria, representing his country at the 2014 FIFA World Cup and three Africa Cup of Nations tournaments.

An Unforgettable Night for Lille and Bentaleb

At full-time, Lille fans serenaded Bentaleb, recognizing his incredible resilience. His return is a testament to his determination, passion, and never-give-up attitude, inspiring players and fans alike.

His story is far from over, but this chapter will go down as one of the most emotional and heartwarming moments in football history.