Footballer dies after ‘collapsing throughout a free-kick’, heartbroken coach confirms

A footballer has tragically died after collapsing during a free-kick, with tributes pouring in for the well-loved midfielder on social media

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A footballer has tragically died after collapsing during a free-kick, his heartbroken coach has confirmed.

Habibu Aliyu Ozeze, who once turned out for Kogi United F.C of Nigeria’s second tier, collapsed during a seven-a-side Ramadan football match in Shabu, a suburb of Lafia, on Sunday. Eyewitness reports describe the incident happening during a set-piece.

It was claimed Ozeze’s side had a free-kick when he stepped back to deliver the pass before collapsing to the ground without any contact. He was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital but was confirmed dead on arrival.

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Confirming the incident, the team’s coach, Suleiman Ibrahim, said the collapse came without warning.

“The deceased’s side had just been awarded a free kick,” Ibrahim explained. “As Habibu stepped back to strike the ball, he suddenly slumped without any contact. He was taken to the hospital, where he was confirmed dead before arrival.”

Tributes have also flooded in on social media, with one responding on Facebook: “Rest in peace bro. A very good footballer, very humble too. I was privileged to know him back then in 2018…”

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“My team mate may you find rest brother we will miss you, I will miss you,” a second said. While a third shared: “Gone but never be forgotten.”

“He used to play in the Igbo league organised by Igbo community in Lafia. A budding midfielder. May his soul rest in peace,” a fourth replied. And another added: “RIP brother.”

Ozeze also served as captain of Heartland FC of Shabu as well as turning out for Kogi United.