West News Wire: Following a penalty save on Saturday during a game, a Belgian goalkeeper collapsed on the pitch and was later declared dead, according to a statement from his club.
According to Reuters, Arne Espeel, 25, had just stopped a second-half penalty kick when he promptly collapsed on the ground. He was reportedly revived by a defibrillator on the field, but shortly after being brought to the hospital, he was declared dead.
In West Brabant, Belgium’s second provincial division, Espeel competed for Winkel Sport B. At the time of the event, the squad was leading their match against Westrozebeke 2-1.
“Winkel Sport is in very deep mourning by the sudden death of Arne Espeel,” the club said in a statement that was translated by Reuters. “We wish family and friends of Arne our heartfelt condolences in this heavy loss. Football is an afterthought.”
An autopsy was scheduled to take place Monday, according to Reuters.
