Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, August 30, 2024, Kolkata: In a tragic incident, 27-year-old Uruguayan footballer Juan Izquierdo, playing for Brazil’s National Club, died of a heart attack on the field during a Copa Libertadores match against São Paulo FC
at the Brazilian city’s Morumbi Stadium. The Copa Libertadores is one of the most prestigious football competitions in Latin America, showcasing top clubs from across the continent.The heartbreaking incident occurred in the 84th minute of the game when Juan suddenly collapsed on the field, clutching his chest. Medical personnel quickly rushed to his aid, and he was immediately transferred by ambulance to Albert Einstein Hospital in São Paulo. Despite the best efforts of the medical team, Juan was declared dead soon after his arrival. According to doctors, Juan was suffering from arrhythmia, an irregular heartbeat condition that can lead to sudden cardiac arrest.
The club confirmed the tragic news on its social media platforms with a black-and-white photo of Juan, stating, “It is with deep sadness that we announce the death of our beloved Juan Izquierdo.” The post has drawn an outpouring of grief and tributes from fans, fellow players, and football clubs worldwide.
The news comes just a week after Juan and his wife, Selena, welcomed their second child, making the loss even more devastating for his family. The football community has rallied around his family, offering support and condolences during this difficult time.
The National Sports Secretariat, Sebastian Bauza, revealed that Juan had been diagnosed with an irregular heartbeat during a fitness test with a youth team several years ago. However, Club President Alejandra Balbi clarified that Juan’s physical examination prior to joining the Brazilian National Club in January this year showed no signs of heart disease, raising questions about the adequacy of current fitness screening methods in professional sports.
Born in Montevideo in 1997, Juan Izquierdo began his professional football career in 2017. Over the years, he played for various first-division clubs in Uruguay, making a name for himself as a talented and dedicated defender. He also played for the Mexican club Atlético San Luis, where he was known for his strong defensive skills and commitment on the field.
Juan’s untimely death has once again highlighted the issue of cardiac health in sports, particularly in young athletes. Recent studies have shown that sudden cardiac arrest is one of the leading causes of death among athletes. This tragic incident has reignited discussions on the need for more rigorous health screenings and better awareness of heart conditions among athletes, both at the professional and amateur levels.
The football world mourns the loss of a young talent taken too soon. Clubs across Latin America and beyond have expressed their condolences, and moments of silence were observed at various football matches as a tribute to Juan Izquierdo. The National Club has announced that they will hold a special memorial service to honor Juan’s memory and support his grieving family.