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A La Liga clash between Granada and Athletic Bilbao took a somber turn on Sunday when the match was suspended due to a tragic incident. In the 15th minute, Athletic goalkeeper Unai Simon rushed to alert the referee after learning from Granada supporters that a fan in the stands had suffered a heart attack, plunging into cardiac arrest.
Despite continuing for an additional five minutes, the game was ultimately called off as medical personnel, including team doctors, attended to the distressed fan. Players waited on the field for about 40 minutes before heading to the dressing rooms.
Reports indicated that the fan was transported to the hospital in a private ambulance after being removed from the seat. Unfortunately, the league later confirmed the fan’s passing, withholding the cause of death and identity details.
The fan that was rushed to hospital after suffering a heart attack during the Athletic Club vs Granada match has passed away confirmed by La Liga. Prayers to their family and friends. 🙏🕊️
[@LaLigaCorp] pic.twitter.com/9HiAX05E0K
— LaLigaExtra (@LaLigaExtra) December 10, 2023
Granada supporters acknowledged Simon’s quick response with applause. At the time of suspension, Athletic led 1-0 with a goal from Iñaki Williams in the sixth minute.
The official statement from La Liga noted that the match would be postponed and rescheduled at a later date, yet to be announced. Several top-tier Spanish clubs expressed solidarity and condolences after the tragic announcement, with FC Barcelona extending their deepest sympathies to the fan’s loved ones.