In the third-category match, Ficarolese defender Andrea Vacchi, 24, suffered cardiac arrest after a violent collision with his goalkeeper that left him choking and unconscious after swallowing his tongue.
One of the opposing players, Rivarese’s 37-year-old striker Federico Finotti, stepped in amid general indecision and apprehension.
Finotti removed Vacch’s tongue from his windpipe, bringing him back to consciousness and saving his life before an emergency helicopter team flew him to hospital in Padua.
The local council at Ariano nel Polesine said on Facebook Monday: “Today is World Kindness Day and we thank Federico Finotti with all out hearts, wishing Andrea Vacchi a swift and complete recovery.”
ANSA
