The harsh reality of life as a photojournalist was on show during last night’s World Cup semi-final between Croatia and England.
After scoring what would turn out to be the winning goal for Croatia in the 109th minute, Mario Mandžukić ran towards the stand and crashed right into the photojournalists stationed behind the touchline.
The moment quickly went viral, showcasing the dedication involved in getting the perfect shot.
The NMC was among those Mandžukić flattened, with photojournalists from AFP, Thompson Reuters and Getty Images involved.
Reuters photojournalist Carl Recine was on hand to document the moment his colleague was knocked to the floor.
If there was ever a celebration I didn’t want to take then this was the one #worldcup #cro #croeng #Croatia pic.twitter.com/85pzPEzkYw
— Carl Recine (@carlrecine) July 12, 2018
The man knocked to the ground was Yuri Cortez, Chief Photographer for AFP Mexico.
It’s rare for the one taking the photos to become the story but Cortez’s valiant efforts have shown the risks involved in getting the perfect shot.
Some images of the dramatic celebration of Croatia's second goal against England during the semi final of the world cup #FifaWorldCup2018 #EnglandvsCroatia #CRO #CROvENG #CROENG #RussiaWorldCup2018 #Russia2018 #Rusia2018 #Nikon #CroaciaInglaterra pic.twitter.com/4wTwObDT8t
— Yuri Cortez (@YuriYurisky) July 12, 2018
The NMC is committed to protecting access for photojournalists to do their jobs and continue to document magical sporting moments such as this one.
