Tournament called off after teen player dies

Kabelo Qabalatsane passed away after collapsing in the opening game of the U-17 Champ of Champs tournament in Pretoria on Friday.

|||

Johannesburg – Kabelo Qabalatsane, a 16-year-old soccer academy player from Roo Stars FC collapsed during the opening match of the Under-17 Engen Champ of Champs tournament against Old Mutual Academy in Pretoria on Friday morning and tragically passed away later during the day.

This was despite the young player receiving medical attention from the match doctor who was on site and being immediately admitted to the Steve Biko Memorial Hospital.

As a mark of respect to the family and the soccer fraternity, the tournament organisers have called off the junior tournament that took place at the Tuks sports grounds following consultation with all the teams taking part.

The chief executive of the host Club Stan Matthews expressed his condolences to the family and the club at the tragic event. “No words can fully express our grief and shock at this tragedy.

“Unfortunately, we cannot make any further comment until we have received the official medical report as to what caused this tragedy.

“At this sad time, our thoughts and prayers are with his family, his teammates and everyone at Roo Stars and all those present when the incident occurred.”

– ANA