Christian Atsu finished last match by scoring 97th minute free-kick; Watch his final moments just hours before Turkey earthquake

Atsu, who had been playing for the Turkish club Hatayspor, had played in a match the day before the earthquake hit. In that game, he had scored a free-kick in the 97th minute, securing a 1-0 win for his team and earning the title of hero.

After his remarkable performance, the much-adored Ghanaian was surrounded by his delighted teammates. According to Hatayspor’s administrative manager, Fatih Ilek, Atsu had originally planned to leave Turkey and search for a new team just a few hours before the earthquake. However, his outstanding showing on the pitch seems to have caused him to have a change of heart.

In an interview with a radio station, Fatih Ilek shared his observations of the post-match atmosphere, highlighting the strong sense of unity among the team. He mentioned the coach, Volkan Demirel, embracing Atsu and the player’s enthusiastic celebration on the pitch and later in the dressing room.

Ilek then went on to reflect on the unfortunate timing of the earthquake, noting that Atsu had initially planned to leave Turkey but decided to stay after his remarkable performance. Ilek commented that Atsu was caught in an earthquake on what should have been one of his happiest days, calling it “literally a tragedy.”

Despite days of extensive search efforts, Atsu remained missing until Saturday when his body was sadly found buried in the debris, as confirmed by his manager. The discovery of his remains marks a tragic end to the search for the much-loved footballer. The 7.8-magnitude earthquake struck in the wee hours of February 6 and devastated Syria and Turkey.

FAQs:

1. Where was Christian Atsu born?
   Ada Foah, Ghana
2. When did Christian Atsu begin his professional career?
   At the age of seventeen.