On Saturday, a tragedy occurred when 25-year-old Arne Espeel, a goalkeeper for the Belgian amateur team Winkel Sport B, collapsed during a game.
Reuters had reported that Espeel had just saved a penalty kick when he suddenly found himself in medical distress.
Despite the efforts of emergency services, he was pronounced dead after being taken to the hospital.
Winked Sports issued a statement expressing their sadness over the sudden loss, and Patrick Rotsaert, the team manager, named it a “disaster.”
As reported by The Independent, he said, “This is a disaster and a shock to everyone.” He added, “Arne had been with the club all his life and was very loved. He was a wonderfully sympathetic boy, always in a good mood and willing to help. This is really a heavy blow. First of all, for his family and also our entire club.”
An autopsy is set to take place to determine the cause of death.