Football player slump, dies during live match

Juan Izquierdo, a 27-year-old footballer from Uruguay, tragically passed away after suffering a cardiac arrest on August 22 during a Copa Libertadores match against São Paulo.

His club, Nacional, confirmed his death on X, expressing profound sorrow and offering condolences to his family.

“It is with deep sadness that Club Nacional announces the death of our beloved player Juan Izquierdo,” the statement read. “Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends, and all who knew him. Nacional is in mourning for this irreplaceable loss.”

CONMEBOL President Alejandro Domínguez also shared his grief, noting, “South American football is in mourning.” São Paulo expressed their condolences, describing it as a “sad day for football.”

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Izquierdo collapsed in the 84th minute of the match and was rushed to Hospital Albert Einstein, where he was diagnosed with “cardiorespiratory arrest associated with his cardiac arrhythmia.” Despite intensive medical efforts, his condition deteriorated.

In tribute, São Paulo players wore shirts honoring Izquierdo, and Uruguayan football leagues postponed matches. Throughout his career, Izquierdo played for several Uruguayan clubs, including Liverpool, Cerro, Peñarol, and Montevideo Wanderers, helping Liverpool secure the league title in 2023.

He had recently returned to Nacional, where he was striving for a starting position.