Player dies after collapse in Nigerian league game

Published Dec. 12, 2010 8:40 p.m. ET

foxsports

A footballer in Nigeria has died after collapsing during a topflight league match.

Nigerian Premier League club Ocean Boys confirmed defender Emmanuel Ogoli died after he collapsed in the 39th minute of Sunday's home game against Niger Tornadoes in Yenagoa, in southern Nigeria. He was pronounced dead at a local hospital.

Team spokesman Eddy Ohis told The Associated Press: "We think it's a matter of heart failure but we're not sure."

Ogoli was rushed from the stadium in an ambulance as the game continued.

Ohis said Ocean Boys players went to the hospital after the match "to find the body." He said the team has requested an autopsy.

Ocean Boys is coached by former Barcelona and Nigeria midfielder Emmanuel Amunike.