France: 14-year-old footballer dies after cardiac arrest on the field

Tragedy has struck French football. Fourteen-year-old Ousmane Diaby has died after suffering a cardiac arrest during a match, his club AS Jeunesse Aubervilliers announced on Wednesday.

The young player collapsed on the pitch while representing his club in a game held in Auxerre last weekend. He was rushed to a hospital in Dijon but passed away a few days later.

“It is with immense sorrow that we announce the tragic passing of our dear Ousmane Diaby. After several days of fighting, Ousmane took his last breath this Wednesday,” the Paris-based club said in a statement.

“Ousmane was a child with a huge heart and exemplary manners. He helped his mother every day with household chores and volunteered at the club, especially with the U9s. Always smiling, always helpful and respectful—he leaves an indelible mark on our lives,” the club added.