Tragedy left soccer fans in Belgium in shock after their goalkeeper, 25-year-old Arne Espeel died on the pitch during a game.
According to Fox News, Espeel was goaltending for Winkel Sports B and had just saved a major penalty kick when he collapsed on the field.
Soccer Star Dies on Field After Making Save
This weekend, Arne Espeel (25) had just saved a penalty and then shortly after he collapsed and passed away. He died doing what he loved. Every day can be your last so try to enjoy life while you can.
— 𝙇𝙚ø𝙜𝙖𝙖𝙧𝙙pic.twitter.com/00RkDGbjJ6 (@afcthms) February 13, 2023
Medical staff quickly treated Espeel by using a defibrillator, but despite their best efforts, Espeel tragically passed away after arriving at a local hospital.
“Winkel Sport is in very deep mourning by the sudden death of Arne Espeel,” the club said in a statement, according to Fox News. “We wish family and friends of Arne our heartfelt condolences in this heavy loss. Football is an afterthought.”
“This is a disaster and a shock to everyone,” team manager Patrick Rotsaert 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.”
Espeel’s life was celebrated with a “walk of silence.” Members of Espeel’s family, his team, and nearly 1,000 others participated.
Espeel’s cause of death has not yet been made public. However, an autopsy has been completed.
