Alfredo Quintana died last Friday after failing to overcome a cardiorespiratory arrest, suffered on Monday while training with FC Porto. November 24 In 2004, another Cuban-born goalkeeper, Vladimir Rivero, from San Antonio, died of an aortic aneurysm at his house in Barañain. The tragic similarities of the two cases are evident: both died in their thirties, they were natives of Cuba and they left in search of opportunities in their profession, handball goalkeepers, and they were nationalized with other countries.
Rivero obtained the Hungarian passport, but did not make his debut with the Magyar team. He passed away at the age of 33 as one of the best goals of his time. He was part of the glorious San Antonio, with which he won a League, two Asobal Cups, a Spanish Super Cup and a European Cup Winners’ Cup. Quintana did compete internationally with Portugal. With Porto he won six league titles, a Cup and two Super Cups in Portugal. Died at 32 After spending five days in a very serious condition. Both raised the level of their clubs, although Quintana did shine with the Portuguese team.
The shows of affection from the world of sports followed one another in the terrible outcome of the two. The messages of respect and remembrance towards his legacy and of condolences for colleagues, friends and family multiplied. Local and international federations, clubs, players, coaches, fans … all levels of handball mourned the losses of two great goalkeepers, much loved for their cheerful Cuban character, as well as competitive.