Goalkeeper Rico makes return after riding accident

Sergio Rico has been hailed for his bravery after playing his first match since a riding accident which almost ended his life.

The former Paris St-Germain goalkeeper spent 19 days in a coma and 36 days in intensive care after he suffered “a serious mishap due to a mule cart and a horse that hit him“, in May 2023.

Rico joined Qatari side Al-Gharafa last month after his PSG contract expired and on Tuesday he made his debut.

The 31-year-old played in his side’s 4-2 win against Al Ain of the United Arab Emirates in the Asian Champions League group phase, his first minutes on the pitch since May 2022.

“A return to the game and back to winning. Thank you very much to all the fans for all their support. The first victory in a long series,” Rico wrote on social media.

Several current and former team-mates commented on the post with messages of support.

“Let’s go guys! Congratulations on that comeback, showing your bravery. I’m really happy for you,” wrote former Real Madrid striker Joselu, who scored twice in the victory.

“So great, my brother!! So happy to see you there,” said Rico’s former PSG team-mate Keylor Navas.

Rico could make his domestic bow against Umm Salal on 5 October in the Qatari Stars Cup.