Belgian footballer Arne Espeel dies on the pitch just seconds after saving a penalty
Belgian goalkeeper has died after collapsing on the pitch seconds after saving a penalty for his side.
Arne Espeel, 25, was in action for Winkel Sport B – who play in the second provincial division of West Brabant in Belgium – against Westrozebeke at Winkel Sport’s home ground in Sint-Eloois-Winkel, West Flanders Province.
Winkel Sport were 2-1 up before Westrozebeke were awarded a penalty in the second half.
Espeel saved the penalty, before he suddenly collapsed on the pitch, dropping immediately to the ground.
Emergency services ran on to help Espeel and did all they could to save him with a defibrillator also used, but the 25-year-old was pronounced dead soon after he was taken to a hospital.
An autopsy was scheduled to take place on Monday with the cause of Espeel’s death as of yet unconfirmed.
Following the tragedy, the Belgian club issued a statement that said: ‘Winkel Sport is in very deep mourning at the sudden passing of goalkeeper Arne Espeel.