Football Match Pauses as Player Resuscitates Seagull Struck by Ball

A football match in Istanbul took an unexpected turn on February 24, 2026, when play was halted to save a seagull struck by a ball. The incident occurred during the Istanbul 1st Amateur League Play-Off Final, where Mevlanakapi Guzelhisar faced off against Istanbul Yurdum Spor. The game, which held significant implications for promotion, was overshadowed by an extraordinary act of compassion.

In the 22nd minute of the match, goalkeeper Muhammet Uyanik launched the ball from his penalty area. Mid-flight, the ball collided with a seagull flying overhead, causing the bird to plummet to the ground. Team captain Gani Catan quickly approached the injured bird, assessing its condition. Finding it unresponsive and unable to breathe, Catan took immediate action.

His instinct was clear: perform CPR. For approximately two minutes, he administered chest compressions, and his efforts began to show signs of success. Catan noticed the seagull’s legs and eyes starting to move. As the bird regained consciousness, water was brought over to aid in its recovery. Medical staff present at the match were then able to take the revived bird for further care.

Catan later remarked on his actions, noting he had no formal health or first-aid training. He described his response as a reflexive action, motivated purely by a desire to save a life in that moment. The dramatic rescue was captured live on air, showcasing not only the unexpected event but also the spirit of sportsmanship off the pitch.

Despite the emotional high of the incident, the match concluded with a defeat for Istanbul Yurdum Spor, costing them the championship title. However, for Catan, the day was defined by a different victory. “We missed out on the championship, but helping save a life is a good thing,” he said. “This was more important than the championship.”

This remarkable event serves as a reminder of the capacity for kindness and the unexpected moments that can arise in competitive sports. While the outcome of the match was disappointing for one team, the quick actions of Catan and the support of those around him highlighted a shared humanity that transcended the game itself.