Bundled-on photographer reveals Croatia’s historic celebrations

AFP photographer Yuri Cortez became an unlikely part of Croatia’s victory celebrations on Wednesday night, after he found himself at the centre of a team pile-on.

Croatia’s defender Josip Pivaric (R) celebrates with teammates after Croatia’s forward Mario Mandzukic (C) scores during extra time (Yuri CORTEZ / AFP/ Getty Images) 

Having scored what would be the winning goal in the 109th minute, after going to extra time, Mario Mandzukic became the focal point of the team’s celebrations, apparently unaware that they’d also taken Cortez into the bundle.

Croatia’s Mario Mandzukic (R) celebrates with teammates after scoring (YURI CORTEZ/AFP/Getty Images)

Ever the professional, Cortez continued snapping away, and the results which later emerged are priceless.

Croatia’s forward Mario Mandzukic (C) celebrates with teammates after scoring his team’s second goal (YURI CORTEZ/AFP/Getty Images)

After the team rose from their celebration, the photographer was helped back to his feet by players and was even given a kiss by Domagoj Vida, for his troubles.

Croatia’s Mario Mandzukic (C) offers to help AFP photographer Yuri Cortez (YURI CORTEZ/AFP/Getty Images)