CAUTION: How to Avoid Heart Attack, Untimely Death During Nigeria, Cote d’Ivoire AFCON Final By Aishat M. Abisola and Lawal Dahiru Mamman

Football, a sport that is known for its exhilarating highs and heart-wrenching lows, can be a rollercoaster of emotions for fans. Whether you are watching your favourite team on TV or cheering from the stadium, the thrill of the game can sometimes take a toll on your heart and nerves.

As Nigeria is playing Ivory Coast – the host – tomorrow in the 2023 AFCON (Africa Cup of Nations) final match, it will be a bit more difficult for you to keep your emotions in check. The fervour and excitement of seeing your country’s team lock horns against another formidable opponent can be nerve-wracking. However, there are several strategies that individuals can employ to maintain composure and enjoy the dramatic match to the fullest.

This caution is important to avoid a future occurrence of the series of avoidable deaths the country suffered in the intense semi-final clash against South Africa on Wednesday.

At least five Nigerians were reported dead on that night, most of them, when Osimhen’s goal was ruled out by the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) and South Africa, was awarded a penalty which led to their equaliser.

The Super Eagles later won the game by 4-2 on penalties but the likes of All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain, Cairo Ojuogboh, 64, did not stay alive to join in the celebrations as he screamed unusually, slumped, and later died in the hospital.

Other casualties of the game were a corps member serving in Adamawa state known as Samuel, a middle-aged man in Ogun state, Mikail Osundiji, the Deputy Bursar of the Kwara State University, Alhaji Ayuba Olaitan Abdullahi, and also a businessman who hails from Anambra state, Chief Osondu Nwoye.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has rightly issued a statement to mourn all the people who passed on and called them national heroes. The players themselves held a meeting in their camp, observed a one-minute silence for them and vowed to deliver the trophy in honour of the fallen heroes on Sunday night.

But these deaths are actually avoidable if only everyone can take a look at the cautionary notes below ahead of another potentially tension-soaked game against the host country on Sunday night.

1. Know Your Limits: Understand your stress triggers and know exactly when you need to step away from intense situations.

2. Deep Breathing: Practice deep breathing exercises to calm your nerves and reduce stress during tense moments of the game.

3. Limit Alcohol Intake: Excessive alcohol consumption will increase your heart rate and blood pressure. Enjoy the game in moderation.

4. Healthy Diet: Make sure that you eat nutritious and healthy foods to support overall health and well-being.

5. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially if you’re attending a match in hot weather conditions.

6. Avoid Smoking: Smoking can significantly increase the risk of heart disease. Quit smoking to protect your heart.

7. Stay Informed And Seek Help When You Need It: Educate yourself about the signs and symptoms of a heart attack, and know when to seek medical help if you experience symptoms of a heart attack, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or dizziness.

8. Practice Relaxation Techniques: Incorporate relaxation techniques such as meditation or yoga into your routine to manage stress effectively. If you feel tense at any moment during the match, engage in one of your relaxation techniques to cool down.

9. Stay Connected: Watch the game with friends and family to share the excitement and support each other during tense moments. Enjoy the game and embrace the ups and downs with a sense of humour and perspective.

10. Maintain Perspective: Remember that football is just a game and the outcome does not define your worth or identity. Ensure that you stay present and focused on the moment, rather than worrying about the outcome of the game.

11. Take Breaks: If you begin to feel overwhelmed or anxious, take a short break from watching the game to regroup and relax.

12. Stay Active During Breaks: Use halftime or commercial breaks to stretch your legs and move around to improve blood flow around your body.

13. Avoid Excessive Caffeine: Although coffee and caffeine may help you stay alert, taking it in excessive amounts can increase heart rate and anxiety levels.

14. Seek Social Support: Share your feelings and concerns with your friends or loved ones to alleviate any stress and anxiety that you may feel.

Implementing these strategies will ensure that you can enjoy watching football matches while safeguarding your heart’s health and maintaining your composure during intense moments.

You will have a reduced risk of a heart attack when you keep up with your health, avoid unhealthy food or drinks, engage in exercise and meditation, and maintain regular contact with a medical professional. Your health is the main priority, so you need to keep your physical and well-being in check as you enjoy the game responsibly, regardless of the outcome.