Lifesaving mission: Bundesliga referee Ittrich becomes an unexpected hero

In the Bundesliga match between FC Bayern Munich and 1. FSV Mainz 05, the game took an unexpected dramatic turn when referee Patrick Ittrich unexpectedly came to the rescue of Josuha Guilavogui.

Munich – In an exciting match on Saturday afternoon, March 9, which not only ended with a high score of 8:1, but also featured a dramatic scene that went beyond the game itself, referee Patrick Ittrich (45) proved to be an unexpected lifesaver for professional soccer player Josuha Guilavogui (33).

In the 33rd minute of the game, Guilavogui and teammate Anthony Caci collided, with Guilavogui being hit on the head by Caci’s knee and not moving – a moment that worried everyone present.

In this dicey situation, referee Patrick Ittrich, who also works as a police officer, quickly took on responsibility far beyond his role as match referee. He placed Guilavogui in the recovery position and prevented the risk of suffocation from a fallen tongue – a quick, vital action. The player Guilavogui later expressed his gratitude to referee Ittrich. “Quick action is required in such moments. I’ve seen many similar situations. The tongue had moved backwards, and as soon as it’s back in place, you can breathe again and come to,” Ittrich commented to Sky Sport. The Mainz team were relieved after the incident and Patrick Ittrich was praised for his courageous intervention. Nadiem Amiri in particular, who immediately recognized the critical extent of the situation, paid tribute to him with a spontaneous hug.

Josuha Guilavogui also later posted on the social network “X” (formerly known as Twitter) his appreciation for the quick rescue efforts of Patrick Ittrich, his colleagues and the medical teams of 1. FSV Mainz 05. The incidents clearly show that the soccer pitch is not only a place of sporting success, but can also be the scene of prudent action in emergencies.