Katsina United have confirmed the death of newly signed midfielder Chinedu Ozoh after he suffered a medical emergency during a pre-season friendly against Niger Tornadoes.
The incident happened on Tuesday at the Muhammadu Dikko Stadium in Katsina, where Katsina United were playing fellow Nigeria Premier Football League side Niger Tornadoes.
Ozoh was taken to a specialist hospital after collapsing during the match, but he later died, according to the NPFL.
Katsina United, known as the Ikon Allah Boys, announced the news in a statement posted on their official X account.
“We mourn the tragic passing of our newly signed player, Ozoh Chinedu, following a medical emergency during today’s friendly match against Niger Tornadoes FC,” the club stated.
“Our thoughts, prayers, and strength are with his family and loved ones. Rest on Warrior.”
The club did not provide further details about the nature of the medical emergency.
Ozoh had only recently joined Katsina United after moving from fellow NPFL club Kano Pillars. The fixture against Niger Tornadoes was part of Katsina United’s preparations for the new season.
The NPFL also issued a statement expressing its condolences to the player’s family, teammates and both clubs.
“Katsina Utd new signing Chinedu Ozoh passed away today due to a medical emergency during a pre-season friendly vs Niger Tornadoes,” the league said on X.
“He was rushed to a specialist hospital but sadly died. Our condolences to his family, teammates and the club.”
The death has brought mourning to Katsina United as the club prepares for the forthcoming NPFL campaign. Ozoh’s arrival from Kano Pillars had made him one of the club’s new signings ahead of the season, but his time with Katsina United has ended in tragic circumstances.
The Muhammadu Dikko Stadium, the venue for Tuesday’s match, became the setting for the emergency that led to the player being taken for specialist treatment. Despite those efforts, the NPFL confirmed that Ozoh could not be saved.
Katsina United’s tribute described Ozoh as a “Warrior” and offered support to his relatives and loved ones. The club and the league both extended their condolences following the player’s death, while the league also acknowledged the impact on his teammates and the club.
Source: nigeriafootball
