The community of those involved in football is grieving the de@th of 15-year-old Atziri Ledif Galeana Valencia, who collapsed during the final of a girls’ football tournament in Mexico.
Atziri from Chivas Lcz was forced to stop in the 72nd minute of the match against Toriz because it was extremely hot; temperatures were said to be over 34°C.
Doctors and nurses started right away, performing CPR, giving oxygen and applying cold compresses to try to stabilize her. She was taken to a hospital nearby, but it was announced not long after that she had died.
After the tournament’s final was put on hold, all the remaining matches were canceled out of respect for those who had passed. A club statement honored Atziri, calling her a champion and describing how much she meant to those who knew her.
“We will always remember you with love. We will see you again in a more beautiful final and in the meantime, rest in peace, champion,” the statement said.
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The prosecutor’s office in Michoacan is investigating if the company took proper safety measures since the weather was so dangerous at the time. There have been worries that it was not safe to go ahead with the match when temperatures were so high.
People recognized Atziri for her passion, ability and good leadership on the field, which helped her become a top player among the youth. Fans, teammates and fellow athletes have filled social media with posts sharing their grief and praising her personality.
The Liga Deportiva de Guacamayas, who organized the tournament, also sent flowers as a tribute to Atziri.
The tragic loss makes clear why safety standards and attention to young athletes during tough conditions are very important. Many people involved in football mourn the sad loss of Atziri and hope that future sporting events will be safer.
