In a dramatic and unexpected turn of events, former Brighton & Hove Albion player Ezequiel Schelotto demonstrated quick thinking and bravery during a football match over the weekend. The 36-year-old, who currently serves as captain for Swiss third-tier club FC Paradiso, took matters into his own hands when a fire erupted behind one of the goals.
Heroic Intervention During Crucial Victory
The incident occurred during Paradiso's 2-1 victory over FC Bavois on Saturday at their home ground, Campo Pian Scairolo. As flames began to spread near a fan banner adjacent to a goal, Schelotto immediately sprang into action. Without hesitation, he grabbed a hose from the side of the pitch and successfully extinguished the blaze, ensuring the safety of spectators and players alike.
Footage shared on the Instagram account TGDOM Sport24 captured the remarkable moment, showing the fire originating close to a Paradiso supporter display in a car park area. The exact cause of the fire remains unclear, but Schelotto's prompt response prevented any serious damage or injuries at the 1,000-capacity venue.
Schelotto's Varied Career and Recent Moves
Ezequiel Schelotto, born in Argentina but capped once by Italy, has enjoyed a diverse professional journey across Europe. After beginning his career at Cesena in Italy, he progressed to notable clubs including Atalanta and Inter Milan before transferring to Sporting Lisbon. In 2017, Brighton secured his services for £2.5 million, where he made 28 Premier League appearances over three seasons.
During his time with the Seagulls, Schelotto experienced both highs and challenges. He played 23 matches in his debut season under manager Chris Hughton but was loaned to Chievo in his second year. Returning for the 2019-20 campaign, he added nine more appearances under Graham Potter before being released. Schelotto has since reflected on a strained relationship with Potter, citing disagreements over team selection and tactics.
Memorable Moments and Controversies
Beyond his firefighting heroics, Schelotto is remembered for a fiery on-pitch confrontation with Crystal Palace winger Wilfried Zaha during a heated M23 derby in 2020. After being booked for kicking a ball at Zaha, Schelotto engaged in a shoving match and later made a 'crybaby' gesture towards the Palace star, who was facing taunts from Brighton fans during a 1-0 defeat.
Following his departure from Brighton, Schelotto returned to Argentina, playing for Racing Club, Aldovisi, and Deportivo Moron. He then rejoined Italian football with Serie B side Barletta in 2023 before moving to FC Paradiso in Switzerland the following year, where he now leads the team as captain.
This latest incident highlights Schelotto's enduring presence in football, showcasing not only his skills on the pitch but also his capacity for decisive action in critical situations. His swift response to the fire has earned praise from fans and commentators, adding a unique chapter to his storied career.
