Brazil mourns the death of Edson Lopes Gama, a 16-year-old goalkeeper from an amateur soccer team. Edson collapsed after blocking a penalty kick with his chest during a training session and died on the way to the hospital on Wednesday (15/1/2025).
The incident was captured on video, showing Edson being hit directly in the area between the sternum and the diaphragm by the ball. He fell to the ground after the heavy impact. The young man from the city of Maués, Amazonas state, was immediately taken to hospital. However, the journey from the difficult rural area took up to 11 hours, leaving him lifeless.
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“Football is played almost everywhere in Brazil. However, not all fields are equipped with adequate facilities or effective medical services to deal with emergencies,” wrote Spanish newspaper Marca, commenting on the tragedy, on Thursday (16/1/2025).
According to Edson’s family, the deceased goalkeeper suffered serious chest injuries from the impact of the ball. However, the exact cause of his death is still awaiting the results of an autopsy. Edson was known to have an active lifestyle and had no history of heart disease.
Edson’s family paid their last respects by wearing the jerseys of his favorite football club Gremio. His coffin was carried to his final resting place amid deep sorrow.
“Today, you touched the hearts of all of Brazil,” Edson’s older brother Eliomar wrote on social media.
“I never imagined something like this would happen. You were a passionate kid and a dedicated player. Although sad, you left in a way that reflected your love for the game,” he wrote.
Condolences poured in from various parties. “May God comfort the hearts of your family and friends,” wrote one netizen.
The goalkeeper’s death is a reminder of the importance of adequate facilities and emergency medical services, especially in a sport that is often played in remote areas.
