A 23-year-old footballer has tragically died after suffering a cardiac arrest during a match.
Daniele Pairotto reportedly began feeling unwell at the changing room door during half-time on Saturday (28 Feb).
He suddenly lost consciousness and collapsed.
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Teammates and staff immediately called emergency services and began performing CPR using a defibrillator, following instructions over the phone.
When paramedics arrived, they took over resuscitation efforts.
Due to his critical condition, Daniele was airlifted from Crova, Italy, to a hospital in Novara, where he was admitted to the ICU.
Despite doctors’ efforts, his heart stopped on Sunday (1 Mar) afternoon.
Daniele played as a centre-back for Crova, as reported by Need To Know.
He and his teammates were locked in a 0-0 struggle against Livorno Ferraris in a CSI (Centro Sportivo Italiano) amateur football championship match when the tragedy occurred.
Among those who came to his aid were his father, Pier Paolo, and his older brother and teammate, Riccardo.
Outside of football, Daniele worked in agriculture as a tractor driver.
He is also survived by his mother, Anna.
Crova president Giusi Fileccia told local media: “It’s a tragedy that has left us devastated. Daniele was a wonderful lad and a healthy athlete. He had always played football.”
The club paid tribute: “His teammates, staff, and everyone at the club are devastated. Daniele’s smile, his passion, and his love for the game will stay in our hearts forever.”
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