The Collapse of a Qatari Player During a Match Has Nothing to Do With COVID-19 Vaccination

Misbar's investigation revealed that Coulibaly's collapse was caused by a heart attack and had nothing to do with the COVID-19 vaccination. In the first official comment on the incident, Al-Wakrah media officer Mohammed Al-Sulaiti stated that paramedics were able to save the player but that his medical condition is unknown, adding that Coulibaly was unconscious when he was taken to the hospital. Shortly after, the club tweeted a prayer for the safety of its player, followed by a statement stating that he is in good health and is undergoing a thorough medical examination.

The QSL issued a statement confirming Coulibaly's heart attack, which necessitated the medical and ambulance personnel at the venue. The statement also stated that the player is currently receiving medical attention and wished him a speedy recovery. "Regarding the status of the match," the statement continued, "it was agreed to end it and complete the remaining time later, beginning with the score when it was stopped (1-0 in favor of Al Rayyan)."

In response to claims that the COVID-19 booster shot caused the player's heart attack, Al-Sulaiti stated that Ousmane had not yet received the third dose. "He took the second dose 8-9 months ago and has shown no symptoms of sickness," Al-Sulaiti added.

It is worth noting that Coulibaly is the most recent in a long line of footballers who have suffered from cardiac and heart problems on the field, the most well-known example being Eriksen's terrifying ordeal in Denmark's opening Euro 2020 match against Finland. However, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), the British drug and vaccine regulator, told Reuters that there is currently no evidence to back up claims that link COVID-19 vaccines to an increase in athletes collapsing or dying from heart problems such as myocarditis.