The football world is in mourning following the death of Juan Izquierdo, a defender for Nacional club, which occurred on Tuesday, August 27, 2024. Izquierdo, who had been hospitalized at the Albert Einstein Israeli Hospital in Sao Paulo, Brazil, died due to brain death after suffering a cardiorespiratory arrest, caused by a cardiac arrhythmia during a match.
The incident took place on Thursday, August 22, during the second leg of the CONMEBOL Libertadores round of 16 match between Nacional and Sao Paulo, at the Morumbi stadium. Izquierdo entered the game from the substitutes’ bench to play in the second half. With less than ten minutes remaining in regular time, the player suddenly collapsed on the field.
The medical team acted quickly and immediately attended to Izquierdo. After performing initial resuscitation maneuvers on the field, the footballer was taken away by ambulance and urgently transferred to the nearest hospital. During the journey, Izquierdo suffered a cardiac arrest, further complicating his health.
Once at the Albert Einstein Israeli Hospital, one of the most prestigious medical centers in Sao Paulo, Izquierdo was admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU). The doctors sedated him and put him on mechanical ventilation, providing intensive neurological care due to the severity of his situation. Since his admission, his condition was reported as delicate but stable.
However, as the hours passed, Izquierdo’s condition began to deteriorate. On Sunday, August 25, new tests revealed a worsening of the brain condition and an increase in intracranial pressure, indicating significant health deterioration. Despite the doctors’ efforts to stabilize him, the player’s condition continued to worsen.
Finally, on Tuesday, August 27, the hospital confirmed Juan Izquierdo’s death at 9:38 p.m. local time. His death was attributed to cardiorespiratory arrest associated with the cardiac arrhythmia he suffered during the match, resulting in brain death. His passing has left a deep sense of sorrow both in his club, Nacional, and in the football community at large.
Juan Izquierdo had a distinguished career in professional football. He began his career at Cerro, a club in his native country, Uruguay, and later played for renowned teams such as Peñarol and Wanderers. He also had international experience in Mexico, playing for San Luis, and upon his return to Uruguay, he joined Liverpool before becoming part of Nacional, where he was currently playing.
Izquierdo’s death not only shocks his teammates and Nacional supporters but also football fans throughout the region. His loss is deeply felt in the sports world, serving as a reminder of the vulnerability of athletes to health issues that can arise unexpectedly.
The tragic death of Juan Izquierdo is a reminder of the importance of health and medical care in professional sports. Football institutions, clubs, and sports authorities must continue to strengthen safety measures and medical protocols to protect players in all circumstances.
Izquierdo will be remembered not only for his skills on the field but also for his dedication and competitive spirit. His legacy will live on in the memories of those who shared moments with him in football and beyond, and his departure leaves a void in the hearts of those who follow the beautiful game.
