Bentaleb Scores Four Minutes Into Return From Cardiac Arrest

Nabil Bentaleb made a triumphant return to football, scoring just four minutes after coming off the bench for Lille, following an eight-month recovery from a cardiac arrest he suffered in June 2024. The former Tottenham midfielder was fitted with a defibrillator and cleared by the French Football Federation to resume playing. Bentaleb's comeback came during a Ligue 1 match against Rennes, where he scored the opener in Lille's 2-0 victory, sparking joyous celebrations on the bench. Lille's manager, Bruno Genesio, expressed the significance of the moment, calling it an 'incredible, wonderful story' that could mark a pivotal point in the club's season. Bentaleb's journey back to football was filled with uncertainty, as he initially faced the possibility of retirement due to his health scare. His goal not only highlighted his personal achievement but also uplifted the team's morale after a recent defeat.