Incredible moment teen Socceroos star Nestory Irankunda is saved from death by quick-thinking referee when he stopped breathing after hard fall during match

Referee Christian Verdicchio’s quick thinking saved the life of Socceroo’s young player Nestory Irankunda, after he was unable to breathe during an on-pitch incident on Friday night.

The 17-year-old Adelaide United wizkid suffered a bad crash during a state league match against Campbelltown City and was fighting for his life on the pitch as his tongue seemed to block his throat.

Irankunda, who had scored the winning goal earlier in the game, was in serious distress as he was quickly surrounded by players from both teams and referee Verdicchio.

“He gasped for air,” Verdicchio told 7NEWS.

“In that moment, when he held his throat, it was very clear that he was not in a good situation.”

Verdicchio, also an expert in cardiac rehabilitation, sensed something was wrong and acted without hesitation.

“Rolled it over, tried to get the tongue out and when that was done, just held it to the side,” he said.

“I’ve seen players hit the ground without taking a breath before, but this one was something else. He wasn’t in a good place at all.’

Irankunda was conscious throughout the ordeal and remained motionless for over three minutes before getting up and walking to the couch.

The teenage sensation was able to train again on Saturday and is closely monitored by the club.

“Ultimately it’s just one of those things – could, would – but in the end he’s here,” Verdicchio said.

“And he’ll probably be back on the field soon.”

Irankunda made headlines for Adelaide last season with some impressive performances and has since caught the eye of Bayern Munich.

Coach Carl Veart said in May that reports that he signed with the European giants were wrong.

“No deal has been made at this stage,” Veart said.

‘From the last conversation I had, it appears that quite a few clubs are still throwing their hats in the ring.

“So I don’t think it’s going to be an easy decision.”

FIFA rules prevent Irankunda from moving to Europe before his 18th birthday in February next year – one month after the transfer window closes.

Veart chose his words carefully about United’s sale of the explosive winger, who was included in the Socceroos squad as a train-on player last March.

“Chances are we will, but at least we still have one more season with him,” said Veart.

“The club will take their time before making a decision.

“And I think Nestor also needs to take time with his group to make sure the next step in his career is a good one and to a place where he can continue to develop.”