Porto’s right back Nanu has sustained a traumatic brain injury after being caught between two opponents on an aerial challenge.
At this Thursday night’s Primeira Liga clash between Porto and Belenenses SAD there was a horrible challenge that led a player to be sent to the hospital. In the match’s 85th minute, Porto was eager to secure the winning goal. Jesus Corona crossed the ball into the box as Nanu entered the box to challenge it. However, goalkeeper Kritsyuk and right-back Nanu collided in the air and Porto’s player fell unconscious to the ground.
The players on both sides immediately called for the medical staff to enter the pitch. Moreover, both sides anxiously asked the ambulance to enter right away. It became clear that Nanu’s injury was very serious as Pepe and Marega were seen crying on the pitch.
The 26-year-old player received oxygen right away and was assisted for 10 minutes before exiting the field on an ambulance. According to Portuguese newspaper Record, Nanu arrived at the hospital with full conscience and has been taken to perform further examination. Moreover, the player sustained a traumatic brain injury but is in stable condition.
Despite the horrible challenge and clear concerns coming from both teams, Porto’s manager Sergio Conceicao entered the pitch yelling at the match referee. The Portuguese manager and some Porto players were visibly annoyed at the referee. However, after validation from VAR, Porto were awarded a corner instead of a penalty.
The match ended in a goalless tie and the current champions can now fall further behind Sporting in the race to renew their title.
We wish Nanu a speedy recovery after this unfortunate event.
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