In a shocking incident during the Copa Libertadores round of 16 match, Nacional defender Juan Izquierdo collapsed on the pitch against São Paulo. The match, held at Brazil’s Morumbi Stadium on August 22, 2024, took a dramatic turn when Izquierdo fell to the ground in the 84th minute, suffering from an irregular heartbeat.
The Incident
Izquierdo, 27, had replaced Sebastián Coates at halftime. As the game progressed, he suddenly collapsed without any contact from another player. The scene was alarming as players from both teams immediately called for medical assistance. The medics rushed onto the field, and Izquierdo was quickly attended to before being taken off the pitch in an ambulance.
Medical Response and Current Condition
Izquierdo was transported to the Albert Einstein Hospital, where he is currently in stable condition and under observation in the Intensive Care Unit. Nacional confirmed on social media that Izquierdo suffered from a cardiac arrhythmia, an irregular heartbeat that can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
The quick response from the medical team and the immediate transport to the hospital were crucial in stabilizing Izquierdo’s condition. Fans and players alike have expressed their relief and support for Izquierdo’s recovery. São Paulo’s official social media account also wished him a speedy recovery.
Impact on the Match
Despite the incident, the match continued after a brief pause. São Paulo went on to win the game 2-0, with goals from Damian Bobadilla and Jonathan Calleri. This victory secured their place in the quarter-finals, where they will face Botafogo in an all-Brazilian clash.
Reactions from the Football Community
The football community has rallied around Izquierdo, with messages of support pouring in from fans, fellow players, and clubs. Nacional’s coach expressed his gratitude for the swift medical response and emphasized the importance of player health and safety. He also mentioned that the team would provide all necessary support to Izquierdo during his recovery.
Looking Ahead
As Izquierdo remains under medical care, the focus is on his recovery and well-being. The incident has highlighted the importance of having medical teams ready to respond to emergencies during matches. It also serves as a reminder of the physical demands and risks associated with professional sports.
The football world will be keeping a close eye on Izquierdo’s progress, hoping for a full and speedy recovery. His resilience and the support from the community will undoubtedly play a crucial role in his journey back to health.