Footballer, 20, dies after freak motorbike crash as tributes pour in | Football | Sport

A 20-year-old footballer tragically lost his life in a motorcycle accident after colliding with a cow on the road while returning from a birthday party. CCTV footage captured the horrifying moment Antony Ylano struck the animal on the BR-343 in Altos, in the state of Piaui, Brazil, at around 3.30am on Monday, October 20.

The video shows the Piaui U-20 striker riding along the highway before crashing into the cow that he seemingly did not notice walking in front of him. He is thrown onto the tarmac by the force of the impact, while the animal, panicked and in pain, drags its hind legs in a desperate attempt to escape.

Police confirmed that the young athlete, who was returning home from his father’s birthday celebrations, died at the scene.

They added that the cause and circumstances of the collision remain under investigation.

Antony, who had played for Altos and Fluminense-PI, was part of the teams that won the Piaui State Championship in 2024 and 2025. As a native of Altos, he was considered one of the region’s brightest talents.

Clubs Piaui, Altos and Fluminense-PI released statements expressing their grief and solidarity with his family and friends.

Piaui stated: “Piaui Esporte Clube is experiencing a moment of deep pain with the loss of striker Antony Ylano, 20 years old, victim of an accident in the early hours, in the city of Altos.

“Ylano has been wearing the colours of Piauizão Vibrante since 2024, the year in which he won the Piauiense Under-20 Championship, played in the 2025 São Paulo Junior Football Cup and the Under-20 Northeast Cup.

“In yet another challenge for the club, the athlete was preparing to travel this Tuesday with the squad that is competing in the Under-20 Brazil Cup.

“The club informs that this Monday’s activities are cancelled out of respect for our time of mourning.”

Altos revealed it learnt of his passing “with deep regret” and characterised him as a gifted player who launched his professional journey with the side.

Fluminense-PI conveyed “deep sadness” and offered sympathies to everyone who knew the footballer.

Antony, who was scheduled to journey with his squad to Fortaleza on Tuesday (October 21) to participate in the Under-20 Brazil Cup, had also featured in the 2025 Sao Paulo Junior Football Cup and the Under-20 Northeast Cup.

His funeral took place in Serra do Cedro, Altos, on October 20.