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Uruguayan footballer Juan Izquierdo has tragically passed after collapsing during a Copa Libertadores match. The defender, who turned 27 last month, was playing for Nacional in the second round of their clash against Sao Paulo in the round of 16. But in the 84th minute with Sao Paolo 2-0 up, he dropped to the turf. An ambulance was called to the pitch and he was rushed to hospital in Sao Paulo after suffering ‘cardiorespiratory arrest associated with his cardiac arrhythmia’. He was placed on a ventilator and neurological critical care. Five days later, he sadly passed away. A statement from the Nacional read: “It is with the deepest sorrow and shock in our hearts that the Club Nacional announces the death of our beloved player Juan Izquierdo. “We express our most sincere condolences to his family, friends, colleagues and loved ones. "All of Nacional is in mourning for his irreparable loss. "RIP Juan, you will be with us forever. " Ex-Manchester United and Uruguay striker Diego Forlan led the tributes for Izquierdo. “How sad. My deepest condolences to his family, ” he said. Uruguay have postponed their domestic leagues games as a result. Meanwhile, Sao Paulo paid their respects in their Serie A league win over Vitoria at the weekend. The club branded it a 'sad day for football'. Brazilian side Fluminense, who recently signed Thiago Silva from Chelsea, said: "Our condolences to everyone at Nacional. " South American football chief Alejandro Dominguez said: “South American football is in mourning, " Izquierdo played for Penarol, Montevideo Warrios and Liverpool (Montvideo), as well as Nacional. This service is provided on talk SPORT Ltd's Terms of Use in accordance with our Privacy Policy.