Portuguese footballer perishes in watery demise during stint at Brazilian club
Brazilian Footballer Jeferson Merli Passes Away in Portugal
Jeferson Merli, a 27-year-old Brazilian football player, tragically passed away on Saturday (2/7) in Portugal. The news of his passing was announced by his former club, Grupo Desportivo Caldelas, on Sunday (3/7).
Merli began his career in Brazil, playing for clubs such as União-MS, a team from the state of Mato Grosso do Sul. He later moved to Spain, where he played for Safor CF. In Portugal, Merli played for Terras de Bouro and AD Lage 2022 before joining GD Caldelas.
Merli spent the latter part of his career with GD Caldelas, playing as a goalkeeper for the club that competes in the 7th division of the Portuguese football pyramid, AF Braga. He recently renewed his contract with the club in July 2025.
On August 2, 2025, Merli died from drowning while swimming with his girlfriend in the Homem River at Terras de Bouro, in the Peneda-Geres National Park, Portugal. He disappeared underwater around 6 pm and did not resurface. Despite a search by rescue teams, firefighters, and divers lasting over three hours, his body was found only around 9:30 pm the same day. The location is known to be beautiful but has hidden currents and deep water, making it potentially dangerous.
Grupo Desportivo Caldelas expressed its deep condolences to Merli's family, friends, and all those who had the privilege of living with him. The club described Merli as a dedicated, friendly, professional, and unifying figure. They also noted that he would never be forgotten for the mark he left on them all.
Rest in peace, Jeferson Merli. Your spirit, dedication, and love for the game will be remembered by all.
Merli's passion for football initially started in Brazil, where he played for União-MS, a club from Mato Grosso do Sul.Despite playing mainly as a goalkeeper in the 7th division of the Portuguese football pyramid for GD Caldelas, Merli's love for the game will never be forgotten.
