Zhang Zhixiong left a shocking impression by pushing an opponent, resulting in a broken neck and potential half-body paralysis.
Chinese football was shaken by a terrifying incident. During the match between Guangxi Pingguo and Chongqing Tonglianglong, midfielder Samuel Asamoah was seriously injured after Zhang Zhixiong pushed him near the sideline, causing his head to violently hit an electronic advertising board. The Togolese player collapsed motionless on the field while teammates and opponents urgently called for medical staff. The footage quickly spread worldwide.
Medical examinations confirmed severe injuries: Asamoah suffered fractures and dislocations from cervical vertebrae C2 to C6, accompanied by nerve compression and spinal blockage. Guangxi Pingguo’s official statement said he “faces a high risk of severe paralysis and his professional playing future remains uncertain.” The most controversial aspect was Zhang Zhixiong receiving only a yellow card, which angered fans and the Chinese online community.
Togolese Samuel Asamoah suffered a severe cervical injury after being pushed by Zhang Zhixiong
The incident happened when he collided with an advertising panel during the match between Guangxi Pingguo and Chongqing Tonglianglong in the Chinese second division
He underwent surgery of… pic.twitter.com/14l0BIiPab
Asamoah was urgently transferred to Nanning Hospital and successfully underwent surgery. He is currently stable and under medical observation, supported by his family and coaching staff. However, doctors remain cautious: recovery will be lengthy, and there is no guarantee he will return to professional football.
Before moving to China, Asamoah had a long career in Europe, playing for Eupen, OH Leuven, and Sint-Truiden in Belgium, as well as Universitatea Craiova in Romania. In 2024, he joined China, initially playing for Leones Rojos de Qingdao before transferring to Guangxi Pingguo, where he became a key player.
This incident has reignited debates about safety in Chinese stadiums. The dangerously close proximity of LED panels to the pitch and lack of shock-absorbing measures are now under review by the local federation. Meanwhile, Guangxi Pingguo expressed full support for Asamoah and urged everyone to respect him during this difficult time.