Uruguayan defender Juan Izquierdo dies aged 27 after collapsing during match

The football world is mourning the loss of Juan Izquierdo, a 27-year-old defender for Uruguayan club Nacional, who tragically passed away after collapsing on the field during a Copa Libertadores match. His untimely death has sent shockwaves throughout the football community.

Tragic Incident

The heartbreaking incident occurred on August 22 during a Copa Libertadores game against Brazilian side São Paulo at the Morumbi stadium. In the 84th minute of the match, Izquierdo suddenly collapsed on the pitch, losing consciousness without any physical contact with another player.

Medical personnel quickly responded, and an ambulance transported him to Albert Einstein Hospital, where he was placed in intensive care.

Medical Emergency and Cause: Juan Izquierdo

Juan Izquierdo’s collapse was later attributed to an irregular heartbeat, a condition that he had no prior public history of. Despite receiving immediate medical attention and ongoing care at the hospital, the young defender could not be saved. His death was officially announced by Nacional on Tuesday, marking a devastating loss for his team and the broader football community.

Desde el Club Atlético Huracán lamentamos profundamente el fallecimiento de Juan Izquierdo, futbolista de @Nacional de Uruguay

Enviamos nuestras condolencias a sus familiares, amigos y seres queridos. pic.twitter.com/RXxut6LBsF

— CA Huracán (@CAHuracan) August 28, 2024

Condolences from Around the Football World

The news of Izquierdo’s passing has brought an outpouring of grief and condolences from across the football world. Nacional expressed their deep sorrow in a statement on social media, saying, “It is with the deepest sorrow and shock in our hearts that the Club Nacional announces the death of our beloved player Juan Izquierdo.” The club also extended their heartfelt condolences to Izquierdo’s family, friends, and teammates, acknowledging the profound impact of his loss.

Con el más profundo dolor e impacto en nuestros corazones, el Club Nacional de Football comunica el fallecimiento de nuestro querido jugador Juan Izquierdo.

Expresamos nuestras más sinceras condolencias a su familia, amigos, colegas y allegados.

Todo Nacional está de luto por… pic.twitter.com/mYU28mqw6m

— Nacional (@Nacional) August 28, 2024

Global Reactions

Alejandro Domínguez, the president of CONMEBOL, South America’s governing body for football, also expressed his sympathies, stating, “South American football is in mourning.” Domínguez’s words echoed the sentiments of many who have been touched by this tragedy. São Paulo, the club against which Nacional was playing at the time of Izquierdo’s collapse, described the incident as a “sad day for football” and shared in the collective grief.

Promising Career Cut Short: Juan Izquierdo

Juan Izquierdo was known for his dedication and passion on the field. At just 27 years old, he was a vital part of Nacional’s defensive line and had earned respect for his performances in both domestic and international competitions. His sudden death is a stark reminder of the fragility of life, even for those in peak physical condition.

Mourning and Remembrance

As the football community continues to come to terms with this tragic loss, tributes for Juan Izquierdo are pouring in from fans, players, and clubs around the world. Nacional, along with other clubs and football associations, is expected to hold moments of silence in upcoming matches to honour his memory.

Izquierdo’s passing leaves a void not only in his team but also in the hearts of all who knew him. His legacy will live on in the memories of his teammates, supporters, and the wider football family who admired his talent and spirit on the pitch.