Evander Sno had to be revived three times after collapsing on the pitch with a heart attack while playing for Ajax.
The 23-year-old was only on the field for 18 minutes as a second-half substitute when the seizure occured in a reserve fixture against Vitesse Arnhem.
Sno required 10 minutes of treatment on the pitch in which the defibrillator was used three times by the medical staff.
Coach Albert van der Dussen told AD: “At first I thought he stumbled, but very quickly everyone realised there was something seriously wrong due to the foam around his mouth.
“Fortunately our doctor and physio were there quickly. They have performed a heroic act and saved his life.
“They gave him the defibrillator three times. We feared for his life, he was very lucky.”
It will be some time before Sno can resume his playing career.
“He looked surprised to see all those people there,” added Van der Dussen.
“I don’t think he realised what was going on but everyone was greatly relieved.”
