Goalkeeper, 25, dies suddenly after saving penalty in 'tragic shock' to his club

A 25-year-old goalkeeper died suddenly after saving a penalty for his team.

Belgian goalkeeper Arne Espeel passed away soon after he saved a penalty for his side Winkel Sport B. Soon after the dave against SK Westrozebeke, he collapsed on the lawn and showed no vital signs.

Desperate players and teammates rushed to give him first aid and emergency services arrived and gave him some defibrillator treatment. However, they were unable to save him as he died in hospital.

A statement from the club read: “Arne has played for us since he was a kid, and everybody really liked him.

“It's impossible to understand how something like this could happen to someone so young. He had been a completely healthy young lad before.”

Winkel Sport were winning 2-1 before the penalty was awarded to Westrozebeke. Espeel made the save to keep his side in the lead, prompting huge celebrations.

It's believed he collapsed after he quickly got back to his feet and started celebrating. The seventh tier match was then immediately abandoned. The cause of death is currently unknown, but an autopsy has reportedly been scheduled for February 13.

Winkel Sport assistant coach Stefaan Dewerchin said: “The ball was still in play. Our goalkeeper got up as quickly as possible to catch the ball but then fell down. It was really terrible to see.”

The club's sporting director Patrick Rotsaert also added: "It's a tragedy and a shock to us. Arne had been with the club his whole life, and he was dearly loved. It's a really hard blow.”