Soccer Star Juan Izquierdo in Critical Condition: Brazil Hospital Update

Uruguayan soccer player Juan Izquierdo is under critical neurological care and on a ventilator after collapsing during a Copa Libertadores game. The hospital treating him has reported progression of brain damage and increased intracranial pressure. His family, including his wife and young daughter, are by his side.

Doctors at the Brazilian hospital treating Uruguayan soccer player Juan Izquierdo confirmed Monday that the athlete is in critical neurological care and remains on a ventilator.

The statement from Hospital Albert Einstein, signed by the three doctors treating Izquierdo, did not offer further details. Izquierdo, 27, has been receiving treatment since collapsing last Thursday during a Copa Libertadores match between his team Nacional and Sao Paulo.

An earlier statement from the hospital noted a progression of brain damage and rising intracranial pressure for Izquierdo, which doctors consider life-threatening conditions. Former Uruguay captain Diego Lugano visited the hospital Monday but refrained from speaking to the media.

Uruguayan media reported that Izquierdo's family, including his wife and two-year-old daughter, are at the hospital alongside Nacional executives. Izquierdo suffered cardiac arrest and required resuscitation after his collapse at Morumbi Stadium.

The concerning health status of Izquierdo led to the postponement of Uruguay's first- and second-division soccer leagues over the weekend. Sao Paulo players wore shirts showing support for Izquierdo in their 2-1 Brazilian league victory against Vitoria on Sunday.

Izquierdo's career features stints at several Uruguayan clubs such as Cerro, Peñarol, Wanderers, and Liverpool, as well as Mexico's San Luis.

(With inputs from agencies.)