Francis Kone took action to save an opponent's life during a league game in the Czech Republic at the weekend.
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.
"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."
Chceme poděkovat Konému i realizačnímu týmu @1_FCS za záchranu našich hráčů! Jste borci! #BOHSLO pic.twitter.com/VH8XdEwPtg
- Bohemians Praha 1905 (@bohemians1905) February 25, 2017
Berkovec and Krch were both taken to hospital, but some 50 minutes into the match, the stadium announcer was able to declare they were both well, prompting a round of applause from the crowd.
"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."
Posting on his Facebook page, Berkovec sent Kone a personal message.
"I would like to thank Francis Kone for his quick action in saving me during today's match," the 28-year-old wrote. "I am grateful for the prompt help, and once again THANK YOU!!!"
