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Football

08th May 2022

Boy, 13, dies after collapsing at football match in Nottinghamshire

Daniel Brown

Rest in peace, Samuel Akwasi

A 13-year-old boy has died following a “medical emergency” during a junior football match in Nottingham on Saturday.

According to the Nottinghamshire Football Association (FA), Samuel Akwasi was playing for FC Cavaliers against West Bridgford Rossoneri in the Young Elizabethan Football League.

The game was played at Forest Sports Zone at the Forest Recreation Ground in Nottingham.

His team stated that Samuel – who had played for the club since Under 9s – was “very well respected by all his team members”.

Nottinghamshire FA sent its condolences to all of Samuel’s friends and family following his devastating passing.

It said on Twitter that it was saddened to announce the 13-year-old had passed away “following a medical emergency during a youth game”.

“We send our condolences to Samuel’s friends, family and team mates at this extremely difficult time,” it added.

 

A spokesman for the Young Elizabethan Football League said on Facebook it was “devastated” to report “the tragic events that unfolded” during Saturday’s match.

“A young Cavaliers player, Samuel Akwasi, collapsed on the pitch after suffering a Sudden Cardiac Arrest,” he said.

“Despite the best efforts of those present and the quick application of a defibrillator along with the speedy response of the emergency services, Samuel sadly passed away in the QMC.”

He added: “Our hearts and prayers all go out to his family and friends as well as FC Cavaliers at this awful time.”

West Bridgford Colts FC tweeted it was “devastated” to hear of Samuel’s death, adding: “We appreciate the efforts of all involved both at the match and the emergency services.”

Dorset County Football Association added: “Heartbreaking news… our thoughts are with Samuel’s family, friends and all involved at his club”.

Notts County Foundation wrote: “Everyone at Notts County Foundation is heartbroken to hear of the tragic passing of Samuel Akwasi. Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences go out to Samuel’s family and friends at this unspeakably sad time.”