World Cup Defender Injures Photographer in Bizarre Touchline Collision

A strange incident at the 2026 World Cup left a photographer needing medical treatment during Uzbekistan’s group-stage match against Colombia on Thursday morning. Uzbekistan defender Abdukodir Khusanov, who plays for Manchester City, slid hard out of bounds while trying to beat Colombia winger Luis Diaz to a long ball in the 34th minute.

Khusanov’s momentum carried him into the cameraman on the sideline, knocking the photographer to the ground along with his heavy equipment. The man appeared in pain and suffered visible injuries. Other photographers nearby helped him up and quickly alerted the stadium medical staff.

FIFA’s medical team gave the photographer first aid, then transferred him to a local hospital for further tests and treatment. He was conscious when evacuated. The article says the video sparked wide reaction on social media, with many users expressing concern for the photographer’s condition.

Others focused on Khusanov’s fierce challenge, calling him names such as “axe” and “tractor” because of the force of the slide. The match was part of the group stage, and the incident was described as one of the more bizarre moments of the tournament so far.