Football Game Stops As Player Performs CPR On Seagull Struck By Ball

February 24, 2026

A football game in Istanbul took an unforgettable turn when the match suddenly stopped due to injury — not for a player, but to save the life of a seagull.

via Anadolu Agency

According to reporting by Türkiye Today, the rare incident happened during the Istanbul 1st Amateur League Play-Off Final in Zeytinburnu. The match featured Mevlanakapi Guzelhisar facing off against Istanbul Yurdum Spor in a high-stakes game that would determine promotion.

But in the 22nd minute, something completely unexpected happened.

Goalkeeper Muhammet Uyanik launched the ball away from his penalty area. Mid-flight, the ball struck a seagull that had been flying overhead. The bird fell to the ground.

Team captain Gani Catan was the first to reach the bird. Recognizing that the seagull appeared unresponsive and unable to breathe, he didn’t hesitate.

His instinct? Perform CPR.

Catan administered chest compressions for about two minutes. As he continued, he began to see movement return to the bird’s legs and eyes. Gradually, the seagull started responding again.

Water was brought over, and the revived bird was carefully carried to the sideline and handed to medical staff present at the match.

Remarkably, Catan said he has no formal health or first-aid training. He described his actions as a reflex — simply an attempt to save a life in the moment.

The dramatic moment was captured during a live broadcast:

The match ultimately ended in defeat for Istanbul Yurdum Spor, costing them the championship title.

But for Catan, the result didn’t define the day.

“We missed out on the championship, but helping save a life is a good thing,” he said. “This was more important than the championship.”