Referee Christian Verdicchio has been praised for his quick thinking, saving the life of Nestory Irankunda after a serious incident in an National Premier League match on Friday night.
Irankunda, who was playing for Adelaide United, was sent head first into the turf with just seconds remaining in their game against Campbelltown City.
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The 17-year-old was clearly not in a good way and in need of immediate attention, with referee Verdicchio rushing to his aid.
“He was gasping for air and at that point, even when he was holding his throat, it was very clear he was not in a good situation,” Verdicchio, a doctor and cardiac rehabilitation expert, told Channel 7.
“Pretty much grabbed him and rolled him over. Went to go grab his mouth and tried to get the tongue out. When that was done, just kept him there side-on.
“I’ve seen players hit the floor before and not breath but that one was something different. He was not in a good place at all.”
Irankunda, although conscious, was motionless for three minutes before later walking off the field and was able to return to training on Saturday.
The teenage sensation, who made headlines as a 15-year-old in the A-League after scoring a stunning free-kick against the Jets, had previously been linked to a move to Bayern Munich.
The youngster is touted as a huge part of the future of Australian football with the supremely talented teen delighting fans far and wide.
Thankfully that future wasn’t comprimised after the quick-thinking acts of one hero referee.
Originally published as ‘He was gasping for air’: Quick-thinking ref praised for saving star’s life
