There was pure elation and euphoria on the face of Real Madrid and Spain defender Nacho Fernandez when he walloped in an early goal of the tournament contender in the thrilling 3-3 Group B clash with Portugal last night.
The technique was so perfect that you knew the ball was ending up in the back of the net as soon as it left his foot, and the cannon off both posts was unbelievably satisfying.
We were going mental in our office, so celebrations from Spain supporters must have been something else.
But Nacho's worldie strike wasn't just a goal for La Roja, it was a goal for anyone who has suffered from diabetes - because the 28-year old is almost definitely the first diabetic to have scored in a World Cup.
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Fernandez kept it secret for a while, only revealing it to children when he visited them in hospitals, but decided to disclose his condition and raise awareness in November 2016.
Diagnosed with type 1 diabetes as a 12-year old in the youth ranks of his beloved Real Madrid, Nacho was told by one doctor that he would never play football. Another had a different viewpoint that turned out to be spot on.
"They carried out some tests and my blood-sugar levels were through the roof," Nacho said as quoted by IOL.
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"I was diagnosed with (type 1) diabetes. On the Friday the doctor told me there was no way I could go on playing football. Imagine any 12-year-old kid being told that. It was awful.
"On the Monday I went back into the hospital and I saw a different doctor, Dr Ramirez.
"I was so happy because he said the opposite was true. He said sport was the most important thing for me and I had to carry on playing and competing. It wasn't true that my condition meant I couldn't be a sportsman. And here I am still fighting."
Here he is indeed, still fighting the good fight and proving to everyone that you can achieve your dreams even if you suffer from such a severe illness.
Nacho, you are an inspiration. We salute you, sir.
Featured Image Credit: PATopics: Football News, Football, Spain, Real Madrid
