In a heartbreaking turn of events, the soccer world has lost a rising star far too soon. Juan Izquierdo, a talented Uruguayan defender, passed away on Tuesday at just 27 years old, after collapsing during a Copa Libertadores match in Sao Paulo, Brazil. Izquierdo, who played for Uruguay’s Nacional club, succumbed to complications from a sudden cardiorespiratory arrest, which struck him five days earlier during a game.
Izquierdo’s death has sent shockwaves through the soccer community, leaving fans, teammates, and officials mourning the loss of a player who had so much more to give. The Albert Einstein Hospital in Sao Paulo, where Izquierdo was treated, confirmed his passing at 9:38 p.m. local time, citing “cardiorespiratory arrest associated with his cardiac arrhythmia” as the cause.
The tragedy unfolded last Thursday at Sao Paulo’s Morumbi Stadium, where Nacional was playing a crucial Copa Libertadores match. With just minutes left in the game, Izquierdo suddenly collapsed on the field, prompting immediate medical attention. Despite the best efforts of medical professionals, who placed Izquierdo on a ventilator and into neurological critical care due to increased intracranial pressure, the young player never regained consciousness.
The loss has been deeply felt across South America, where soccer is not just a sport but a way of life. Nacional, Izquierdo’s club, expressed their sorrow on social media, stating that his death is a “deep pain and impact in our hearts,” adding that “all Nacional is in grief for his irreplaceable loss.” The statement reflects the collective mourning of a nation that cherishes its soccer heroes.
CONMEBOL President Alejandro Domínguez also paid tribute, saying, “South American soccer is in mourning.” His words echoed the sentiments of many who recognized Izquierdo’s potential and were devastated by his untimely death. The soccer federations of Uruguay, Brazil, and Argentina also offered their condolences, highlighting the regional impact of this tragic loss.
Izquierdo’s career was marked by promise and perseverance. He began his professional journey in 2018 with the local club Cerro, before moving on to Peñarol, one of Uruguay’s most prestigious teams. Though his time at Peñarol saw limited action, he quickly made a name for himself at Montevideo Wanderers. His talent was undeniable, earning him a brief stint in Mexico with San Luís, before he returned to Uruguay to help lead Liverpool to a historic league title in 2023.
This year, Izquierdo rejoined Nacional, where he was in fierce competition for a starting spot alongside veteran Sebastián Coates. Despite his young age, he had already played 23 matches this year, scoring a goal, and was seen as a key player in Nacional’s future.
Izquierdo’s death is not only a loss for Nacional but for the entire soccer world. His story is a reminder of the fragility of life and the unpredictability of fate. As the soccer community comes together to mourn, there is a shared sense of grief and loss, not just for the player Juan Izquierdo was, but for the man and leader he was becoming.
As we remember Juan Izquierdo, we extend our deepest sympathies to his family, friends, teammates, and the countless fans who admired his skill and passion on the field. His legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew him and in the annals of Uruguayan soccer history.
