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Arne Espeel, a goalkeeper for Belgium club Winkel Sport B, has died at age 25. Espeel had just saved a penalty for his team in the second half.
After the save, Espeel attempted to get to his feet to gather the ball that was still in play but collapsed on the field.
According to reports, the medical responders immediately ran onto the field to provide aid. The medics attempted to revive Espeel with a defibrillator on the field, but he was pronounced shortly later at the hospital.
“Winkel Sport is in very deep mourning at the sudden passing of goalkeeper Arne Espeel,” the Belgian club said in a statement.
“We wish Arne’s family and friends our heartfelt condolences at this heavy loss. Football is taking a back seat for some time.”
Belgian goalkeeper Arne Espeel 25, died after he collapsed on the pitch while he was in action for Winkel Sport B against Westrozebeke – just seconds after he had saved a penalty
Flowers were put down in the goal where Espeel collapsed pic.twitter.com/maqDIqKjKz
— Lilian Chan (@bestgug) February 14, 2023
Autopsy results have not been reported at this time.
Winkel Sport B assistant Stefaan Dewerchin said, “The ball was still in play. Our goalkeeper got up as fast as possible to receive the ball, but then he fell.
“It was really terrible to watch. All the players showered together after the incident. When the message came that our goalkeeper was dead, it was an unusually heavy blow. ‘I think some players still don’t realize exactly what happened.”
Our deepest condolences go out to Espeel’s family, friends, and teammates during this incredibly tragic time.
