12.08.2026 14:51
A 28-year-old footballer, Chinedu Ozor, who collapsed during a pre-season friendly match in Nigeria and was declared dead by doctors at the hospital where he was taken, was rushed to intensive care after moving his hand in the morgue. The footballer, for whom his club had even published a condolence message, is fighting for his life in the hospital.
New signing of Nigerian Premier League side Katsina United, Chinedu Ozor, collapsed suddenly after losing consciousness in the opening minutes of a pre-season friendly match against Niger Tornadoes. After initial on-pitch intervention, the defender was rushed to the nearest hospital, where doctors reported that he had passed away.
After a police report was obtained for autopsy and funeral procedures, the footballer was transferred to the morgue of Katsina General Hospital, where officials also confirmed the death diagnosis.
CLUBS ISSUE CONDOLENCE MESSAGES
Upon the announcement of the young footballer's death, Katsina United Club issued a condolence message stating the following:
"We have learned with deep sorrow of the tragic passing of our new signing Chinedu Ozor following the medical emergency during today's match against Niger Tornadoes. Our thoughts, prayers, and strength are with his family and loved ones. Rest in peace, Warrior."
The Nigerian Premier Football League management, as well as the player's former clubs Kano Pillars, Rivers United, and Heartland, also shared condolence messages.
HE MOVED HIS HAND IN THE MORGUE
During funeral preparations, a striking development occurred at the morgue. It was noticed that Ozor, placed on the autopsy table, moved his hand and showed slight signs of life. Morgue staff and medical personnel promptly transferred the footballer back to the hospital's emergency department and then to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).
STATEMENT FROM HIS FORMER CLUB
Ozor's former club, Heartland, made a statement following the development, using the following words:
"Reliable sources have confirmed that Chinedu Ozor was removed from the morgue and taken to the hospital after showing signs of movement. He is currently on oxygen support, and doctors are making intensive efforts to bring him back to life."
HE IS FIGHTING FOR HIS LIFE
It has been reported that Chinedu Ozor, who joined the Katsina United squad at the beginning of August, continues to receive treatment at Katsina General Hospital on an oxygen machine, and his condition remains critical. It has been learned that doctors are racing against time to stabilize the condition of the 28-year-old footballer.