Brazilian footballer Gabriel Popo has d!ed at the age of 26, just before he was due to play in a match.
It was gathered that the player suffered a medical emergency and received initial treatment at the stadium before services arrived.
However, Popo was later rushed to a hospital in Sao Paulo, where he d!ed on Sunday.
The game between his side XV de Jau and Uniao Suzano, scheduled for the third round of the Campeonato Paulista, was postponed immediately.
‘It is with immeasurable pain and sadness that we announce the passing of athlete Gabriel Protasio, the Popo,’ said the club in a tribute post on Instagram.
‘The player was attended to in the accommodation and promptly taken to Santa Casa de Jau.’
‘In respect of this moment of mourning, and in a common agreement between the XV de Jau, Uniao Suzano and the Paulista Football Federation, the match has been cancelled.
‘In this moment of pain, we express our solidarity to Gabriel Popo’s family, members of the club, friends and teammates. May his memory be honoured and may we find the strength to bear this irreparable loss.’
The club did not disclose the cause of the footballer’s death.
Throughout his career, he made 41 appearances and scored three goals.
One of his former clubs, Santa Cruz, where he played in 2023, have also released a tribute statement.
‘With deep regret, we mourn the passing of Gabriel Protasio Gomes, better known as Gabriel Popo, who defended the colours of Time do Povo in 2023,’ wrote the club on their X page.
‘He left us due to a sudden illness, and his early departure leaves an immense void. Our condolences to his family, friends and especially to his daughter Mayla. May God comfort everyone in this time of pain.’