A 15-year-old girl, Atziri Ledif Galeana Valencia, collapsed and died while playing in a youth football final in Mexico. She was representing Chivas Lzc against Arcelor Mittal Toriz when she collapsed in the 72nd minute. Temperatures during the match reportedly exceeded 34°C as the country faced a heatwave. Her collapse was linked to suspected heat stroke.
Emergency responders rushed to give CPR, oxygen, and cold compresses to cool her body. She was taken to a hospital in an ambulance, but unfortunately, she didn’t survive. Following the incident, the tournament was immediately suspended, and all matches were cancelled the next day.
The Michoacán State Prosecutor’s Office has launched an investigation to find out if safety procedures were followed during the match.
In an emotional statement, Chivas Lzc described Atziri as a champion who left a lasting impact on everyone she encountered. The club said her memory would live on in the hearts of her teammates, coaches, and fans. Liga Deportiva de Guacamayas, the tournament organizers, also released a tribute and shared their condolences with her family, calling the loss irreparable.
The sports community continues to mourn the young athlete, remembered not only for her talent but also for her passion and spirit on the field.
