A Congolese player is in intensive care after an innocuous collision with the opposition goalkeeper had sickening consequences.
Rudy Bhebey Ndey of the AC Léopards was rushing through on goal in a CAF Confederation Cup tie with Zamalek when he jumped to avoid colliding with goalkeeper Ahmed El-Shennawy.
Horrifically, the 29-year-old landed almost right on top of his head and suffered spinal cord concussion, a fifth cervical vertebra dislocation, and bruises to the spinal cord and the sixth cervical vertebrae.
Just to warn you that the footage is not easy to watch…
https://www.youtube.com/watch?t=45&v=HUuAWV80kEo
The Congolese player was immediately taken to hospital and according to online reports underwent successful surgery.
According to the doctor who treated the player, the medical procedures were a success:
“He arrived with serious damage to his spinal column between his fifth and sixth vertebra, a blow to the spinal cord, breathing difficulties and brain bleeding, but the surgery was successful.
“We will contact his doctors in Congo. I cannot reassure you about his condition yet, and he will remain in the Intensive Care Unit for two days, where he is currently using a ventilator.
Egyptian journalist Amr N. Fahmy has provided further updates. Although good news, the very fact that “moving his hand” is seen as a positive sign shows the tragic and life-changing severity of the injuries:
Exclusive: Rudy Ndey shows positive signs by moving his hand for the first time after surgery.
— Amr Nageeb Fahmy (@amrnfahmy) July 27, 2015
According to the doc, there is a glimmer of hope that Ndey kicks a ball someday, but it is "too early" to say
— Amr Nageeb Fahmy (@amrnfahmy) July 27, 2015
Let’s hope so. There by the grace of God and all that.
