Sad news arrives this morning from Brazil where the football player has died. Gabriel Protacio Gomes Popo who played for the lower league club De Jau from Sao Paulo.

According to media reports, he died before the match against Uniao Suzano in the regional competition, and he was only 26 years old.

The player was not in the squad for the match, but arrived at the club's premises where he was found unconscious by a teammate. He was soon taken to hospital, but his life could not be saved.

"Gabriel will forever remain in our hearts, you can never be prepared for such farewells. He left us too soon, but his joy, talent and passion will live on in each of us. Popo we will play and win for you, we will come back stronger," his club announced.