A 21-year-old footballer from Peru has died in hospital following a horror collision late in a Copa Peru match between Real Titan Nc and Defensor Nueva Cajamarca.
The shocking incident reportedly took place in front of Helar Gonzales Altamirano’s family, when the player was taken away from the field on a stretcher after being knocked out in a clash with the opposing goalkeeper.
His brother Eliceo, who on social media was still asking people to pray for Helar as late as Wednesday, confirmed on Friday morning he lost his fight for life later the same day.
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He said the footballer’s death was attributed to the rupture of an artery in his brain
The footballer’s club Real Titan Nc said in a statement: “Rest in peace friend”.
“We will remember you for your love of football and your family. You leave us with great pain.
“Great strength to your family at this difficult time. They are not alone because Titan is with them and the football family is with them.”
Helar Gonzales Altamirano. Facebook
Helar’s dad Jose, who was in the stands watching when his son fell unconscious to the ground, fought back tears as he told a local TV station: “I would like to thank everyone for their support with this terrible pain that we’re experiencing.
“Helar wanted to be a great footballer from a very young age and was always talking about going as far in the sport as he could.
“I know his team are going to dedicate all their future achievements to him.
“I thought at first when I saw the clash that it was another player and didn’t initially connect that it was Helar.
“I wanted to go onto the pitch to be nearer my son when I realised it was him but they wouldn’t let me and I didn’t see him until we got to hospital when he was already critical.”
The Peruvian Football Federation said on X: ‘We regret the death of Helar Gonzales Altamirano.
“Our deepest condolences to his family, friends and Real Titan Club.”
