Nacional defender Juan Izquierdo tragically passed away after collapsing on the pitch due to an irregular heartbeat during a CONMEBOL Libertadores game against Sao Paulo in Brazil last week. The 27-year-old had been receiving medical treatment since the incident occurred on August 22.
The news of Izquierdo's death was confirmed by his Uruguayan club, Club Nacional, who expressed deep sorrow and shock over the loss of their beloved player. The club extended heartfelt condolences to Izquierdo's family, friends, colleagues, and loved ones, stating that the entire Nacional community is mourning his irreparable loss.
Alejandro Dominguez, the president of CONMEBOL, also offered his condolences to Izquierdo's family and friends, acknowledging the profound impact of the tragedy on South American football.
Sao Paulo, the opposing team during the match in which Izquierdo collapsed, expressed deep sadness at the news, describing it as a somber day for the football community.
The tragic incident occurred in the 84th minute of the game at the Morumbi stadium, where Izquierdo fell unconscious without any contact with another player. He was swiftly attended to on the pitch, then transported to the intensive care unit of the Albert Einstein Hospital for further treatment.
