People in the emergency services understand just how important it is to act quickly when someone’s life is in danger. Whether that is a fall, cut, collision, or medical emergency, time is an important factor that first-responders must take into account.
Togo footballer Francis Kone displayed his courage and efficiency under pressure after a collision during a league match in the Czech Republic.
Former Kaizer Chiefs trialist, Francis Kone, rushed to save a player’s life on Saturday. He’s been dubbed a hero. pic.twitter.com/RXqjv000TX
— Joe Crann (@YesWeCrann) February 28, 2017
ESPNFC detailed the harrowing event:
When Bohemians goalkeeper Martin Berkovec was knocked unconscious after colliding with teammate Daniel Krch just after the half-hour mark of their club’s home game against Slovacko, opposing forward Kone acted quickly.
The Togo forward put his fingers in the prone Berkovec’s mouth to retrieve the goalkeeper’s tongue.
After Berkovec and Krch were reported by the PA announcer as doing well, the fans gave a round of applause. Both Kone and Bohemians head coach Miroslav Koubek talked about the event.
“It wasn’t the first time I have done that. It’s something like the fourth time. Twice in Africa, once in Thailand,” Kone told Czech media after the 0-0 draw between the sides.
I immediately checked to see if he had swallowed his tongue.”
“I would like to put sport to one side and thank Kone, who provided first aid,” Bohemians coach Miroslav Koubek said.
“He acted very professionally in the situation, administered first aid and retrieved his tongue. As far as I’m concerned, that was more important than the whole game.”
