Footballer aged 15 collapses to floor and dies as club release heartbreaking statement | Football | Sport

A teenage football prospect in Mexico has died after collapsing during a match at the weekend. Medics could not save Atziri Ledif Galeana Valencia after she was rushed to hospital having suffered from a suspected heatstroke.

Valencia, 15, is said to have been given oxygen and CPR after falling to the ground during the final of a girls’ tournament in the South American country. She was playing for Chivas against Toriz. Mexico is currently enduring a heatwave in which temperatures reached as high as 34 degrees Celsius in the Michoacan state of Lazaro Cardenas, where the game was being played. An ambulance was called after medics rushed onto the pitch but Valencia was pronounced dead in hospital.

“The Chivas family is going through its hardest moment as we say goodbye to our beloved Atziri Galeana,” Chivas said in an emotional statement.

“You will live on in our hearts – you left an unforgettable mark on your teammates, coaching staff, supporters, and the entire club. Until we meet again to play an even more beautiful final, rest in peace, champion.

“Celebrate up there – you’re leaving us as the true champion you are. We’ll carry this title in our hearts forever – for you, our warrior.”

According to Need To Know, an investigation is now underway to determine whether the correct medical protocols were followed. The football tournament was suspended following Valencia’s death on Saturday. Sunday’s action was also called off and a minute’s silence has since been held ahead of a men’s game in the same tournament.

Officials are said to believe Valencia died from suspected heatstroke. Witnesses reportedly said that medical responders gave her cold compresses in a desperate effort to bring down her body temperature. The incident is said to have happened at the Municipal Sports Complex.

Reports claim that Valencia will be laid to rest today.

Despite some rain in the country, some Mexican states are expected to see temperatures rise to a staggering 45 degrees over the coming days. Civil Protection Coordination and the National Health Service have recommended that individuals avoid direct sun exposure between 11am and 5pm.

People have also been warned to stay hydrated, wear lightweight and light-colored clothing, and avoid leaving children or pets inside vehicles.