Soccer Player Revives Seagull with CPR During Istanbul Match

During the Istanbul First Amateur League playoff final on February 25, 2026, a seagull was struck by a soccer ball, prompting an unexpected act of heroism from Istanbul Yurdum Spor's team captain, Gani Catan. The incident occurred in the first half of the match against Mevlanakapi Guzelhisar when goalkeeper Muhammet Uyanik cleared the ball, inadvertently hitting the bird. The seagull fell to the ground, appearing unresponsive.

New York PostSoccer Player Rushes to Aid and Perform CPR on Seagull Hit by Ball Mid-Game in IstanbulJJ’s That’s Awesome: All Life Is Precious Is Front And Center on The Soccer Pitch

Upon noticing the injured bird, Catan rushed to its aid and began performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and chest compressions. His actions lasted approximately two minutes, during which he observed signs of life returning to the seagull, including movement in its legs and eyes. Catan, who later stated he had no formal first-aid training, described his response as instinctual, driven by a desire to save a life. After reviving the bird, he handed it over to medical staff on the sidelines for further care.

JJ’s That’s Awesome: All Life Is Precious Is Front And Center on The Soccer Pitch

Despite the dramatic turn of events, Istanbul Yurdum Spor lost the match and missed out on promotion to the next league. However, Catan expressed no regrets about the outcome, emphasizing the importance of saving the seagull over winning the championship. “We missed out on the championship, but helping save a life is a good thing,” he remarked, highlighting the value of life in all forms.

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The incident resonated with spectators and social media users, sparking discussions about compassion and the value of all life, even that of a seagull on a soccer pitch. Videos of the event circulated widely, showcasing not only the unexpected nature of the incident but also the camaraderie among players, as both teammates and opponents gathered to witness the revival efforts.

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Istanbul Yurdum Spor shared on social media, “Our captain Gani Catan brought the seagull back to life thanks to the cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) he performed on the field.” This sentiment was echoed by fans and commentators who praised Catan's quick thinking and selflessness during the match.

New York PostSoccer Player Rushes to Aid and Perform CPR on Seagull Hit by Ball Mid-Game in IstanbulJJ’s That’s Awesome: All Life Is Precious Is Front And Center on The Soccer Pitch

While the incident was largely viewed positively, some critics questioned the appropriateness of stopping a competitive match for a bird. However, the overwhelming response from the public has been one of admiration for Catan's actions.

JJ’s That’s Awesome: All Life Is Precious Is Front And Center on The Soccer Pitch

Following the incident, there has been no official word on the seagull's recovery or its future. Catan expressed a desire to visit the bird, indicating a personal connection to the event beyond the soccer field.

Soccer Player Rushes to Aid and Perform CPR on Seagull Hit by Ball Mid-Game in Istanbul

• “We missed out on the championship, but helping save a life is a good thing,” — Gani Catan, Team Captain

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• “Our captain Gani Catan brought the seagull back to life thanks to the cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) he performed on the field,” — Istanbul Yurdum Spor Social Media Post

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