According to reports, today’s match between VfL Bochum and Union Berlin was overshadowed by a frightening incident. In the 57th minute, a powerful shot from Bochum’s Matúš Bero struck Union Berlin’s center-back Diogo Leite directly in the throat, causing him to collapse immediately.

Leite immediately called for help. Players around him quickly summoned medical staff. He received treatment on the pitch for several minutes before being carried off on a stretcher to an ambulance.

Sebastian Kneißl, an analyst for DAZN, commented on the scene: “This affected everyone.” Spectators in the Bochum stadium reacted with concern. As Leite was being carried off, home fans applauded in support. The stadium announcer also wished him a speedy recovery.

Hours after the match, Diogo Leite posted a photo of himself wearing a neck brace on Instagram: “Thank you for all the support and messages. I’m fine and will be back soon.”

Union Berlin coach Urs Fischer said immediately after the game: “At that moment, everyone expected something much worse.” He added that Leite was in the hospital, and it was unclear whether he could return to Berlin with the team that night or would need to stay overnight.

Fischer continued: “We have to wait. When the ball hits you with that much force, there might be some side effects this week. But for now, he’s out of danger. We hope he can swallow food or water again soon.”
Union Berlin’s goal-scorer Benedict Hollerbach said he didn’t have exact details about his teammate’s condition but emphasized: “It wasn’t a good scene. I’m generally sensitive and can’t even watch such things in videos. It’s really terrible, especially if there are long-term consequences. So I sincerely wish Diogo a speedy recovery. The most important thing is that he hasn’t suffered serious damage.”

Union Berlin’s Leopold Zingerle said Leite “could barely breathe. Today, the most important thing is that Diogo recovers quickly. I don’t have more information yet. From here, I wish him all the best.”