In the heat of a Copa Libertadores match in Brazil, Uruguayan footballer Juan Izquierdo collapsed on the field, tragically passing away a few days later at the young age of 27. Medical professionals at Albert Einstein Hospital in São Paulo diagnosed the cause of death as cardiac arrest. The heartbreak occurred on a Tuesday evening, marking the end of Izquierdo's life at 21:38 local time.
Struggling without the ball in the 84th minute, Izquierdo collapsed and was carried off unconscious. The hospital confirmed his cardiac arrhythmia. This heartbreaking incident left the football world in shock and mourning.
Nacional, Izquierdo's club, expressed their grief over the "irreparable loss," conveying their sentiment with "Juan, you will always be with us." São Paulo FC also shared their condolences, calling it a "sad day for football." Conmebol president Alejandro Domínguez extended his sympathies to Izquierdo's family and club, stating, "South American football is grieving."
Starting his football journey with Club Atlético Cerro in 2018, Izquierdo joined Nacional in 2022. Over the years, he played 33 games and scored 2 goals. His recent addition to the team was marked by his devotion to his family — his wife Selene and two children, with the youngest being born just days before his unfortunate collapse, as reported by Nacional president Alejandro Balbi.
Although São Paulo FC moved on to triumph in the match with a 2:0 victory, securing their place in the quarter-finals of the Copa Libertadores (South America's Champions League equivalent), the victory was overshadowed by the tragic news of Izquierdo's passing. The football community continues to express their deep sorrow, acknowledging this as yet another tragic event in the world of sports.
Sudden cardiac deaths in athletes during sports events are rare but tragic occasions. Heart conditions such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, coronary abnormalities, mitral valve prolapse, and genetic arrhythmias can contribute to this unfortunate occurrence. Prevention methods integral to reducing the risk include thorough medical history and physical examination, CPR and AED training, medical transport systems, shared decision-making, regular screening, and awareness education.
