Confusion has trailed the condition of the Katsina United defender, Ozor Chinedu, who collapsed during a pre-season friendly against Niger Tornadoes at the Muhammadu Dikko Stadium in Katsina on Tuesday.
The 18-year-old, recently signed from Kano Pillars, slumped on the pitch in the Gusau/Ahlan Pre-season Cup and was rushed to K-Dara Specialist Hospital, where doctors reportedly pronounced him dead.
Katsina United subsequently issued a condolence statement, while clubs including Heartland and Kano Pillars mourned the player on social media.
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However, in a dramatic twist, mortuary staff at Katsina General Hospital later observed movement in his body. He was immediately transferred to the Intensive Care Unit and placed on oxygen.
Media officer of Katsina United, Nasir Gide, confirmed the development, saying the player had been declared dead twice before signs of life were noticed.
Heartland FC, one of Chinedu’s former clubs, also confirmed the incident, urging fans to pray for his recovery.
As of Wednesday morning, Chinedu remains in critical condition at Katsina General Hospital, while the football community awaits for a medial report.
