PORTUGUESE football has been left in mourning after a seven-year-old academy player died after collapsing in training.
The youngster, who was part of second tier side Boavista’s academy, died in hospital in the early hours of Tuesday evening.
Part of the Boavista U8s, the boy suffered a cardiorespiratory arrest during a training session on Tuesday.
He had only just entered the pitch and was still getting up to speed when he collapsed.
Medical staff treated the seven-year-old on the pitch by using a defibrillator, before emergency services later arrived to continue life support.
The rising footballer, who was in his second season at the club, was then transported to Sao Joao Hospital in Porto where he was in a critical condition before passing away.
A heartbreaking statement released by Boavista read: “It is with deep regret that Boavista Football Club announces the death of an athlete from its U8 football team, which occurred following a training session held this afternoon.
“The young man, just seven years old, felt unwell during the session and suddenly collapsed.
“He was immediately treated on site, and resuscitation efforts were initiated until the arrival of the National Emergency Medical Service (INEM).
“The emergency team continued the procedures and ensured transport to São João Hospital in Porto, where the athlete was admitted in critical condition.
“He was declared dead shortly thereafter, in the early evening.
“The young athlete was in his second season with Boavista and had undergone the necessary medical examinations for registration for this season.
“The Club and his family are not aware of any clinical condition that would prevent him from playing sports.
“On this occasion, Boavista FC reaffirms its long-standing commitment to strict compliance with all health and safety protocols, at all levels of all sports.
“In this moment of profound grief, when words are at a loss, Boavista expresses its deepest condolences to his family, friends, teammates, schoolmates, coaches, and all who knew him.
“We offer them our words of understanding and friendship, and assure them that psychological support will be provided to all who need it.
“The memory of this young athlete will be forever honoured by all who live and represent the Club on a daily basis, and his smile will remain an inspiration for our journey forward.”
Boavista cancelled all training on Tuesday following the horrific tragedy.
The club also declared three days of official mourning.
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