Quito - The football community is mourning the loss of Ecuador international Marco Angulo, who tragically passed away at the young age of 22. Angulo had been fighting for his life after sustaining critical injuries in a devastating car accident, but sadly, he succumbed to his injuries on Nov 12. The Ecuadorean football federation confirmed the heartbreaking news, leaving fans and teammates in shock and disbelief. Angulo's talent and potential will never be forgotten, and he will always be remembered for his contributions to the sport.
Angulo was involved in a traffic accident on Oct 7 that also resulted in the death of his former youth team teammate Roberto Cabezas.
Angulo sustained head injuries and a lung contusion and died at a hospital in Quito on the night of Nov 11, after a week in intensive care.
Angulo had been playing for Ecuadorean league champions LDU Quito since March, on loan from MLS side Cincinnati. Angulo made his senior debut for the South American nation in 2022 and had earned two caps.
"Former player of La Tri, who defended our country's colors with talent and dedication at every opportunity. Marco was not only an outstanding player but also a great teammate," the Ecuadorean FA said on Nov 12.
"We are deeply saddened by the loss of Marco - a husband and father, a brother and son, a friend and teammate. He was a joyful, kind young man who lit up every room he entered," Cincinnati said in a statement.
"Marco is survived by his wife and young son. He was 22 years old."
According to Ecuadorean media reports, three people, including Angulo, died out of the five in the vehicle during the crash.