Portuguese footballer dies on pitch during friendly match

Portuguese footballer Quevin Castro, a former West Bromwich Albion midfielder, died after collapsing during a friendly match in Lisbon on Saturday (August 22). He was 25.

Castro was playing for third-tier side Real SC against top-flight club Estrela da Amadora when he suddenly collapsed on the pitch. Despite immediate efforts to provide medical assistance, he died at the scene, according to the BBC.

The match was abandoned following the tragedy.

The Lisbon Football Association expressed its condolences to Castro's family, friends and both clubs, describing the incident as a "heartbreaking moment".

Real SC and Estrela da Amadora also paid tribute to the midfielder.

Castro joined West Brom's academy in 2021 and later made his senior debut for the club in a League Cup match against Arsenal. He subsequently spent loan spells at Burton Albion, Notts County and Gateshead before leaving West Brom in 2023.

West Brom said the club was deeply saddened by Castro's death. Players and staff will wear black armbands in their upcoming match against Burnley as a mark of respect.