Portugal men’s national handball team goalkeeper Alfredo Quintana had passed away during a training session for FC Porto.
The International Handball Federation (IHF) has released a statement confirming Quintana, 32, suffered a cardiac arrest while at practice and was attended to by paramedics.
The Pro-handballer was rushed to a local hospital in Porto but sadly did not survive the attack.
Quintana had represented the Portugal national team since 2014 having made over sixty-five appearances and leading the team to a sixth-place finish at the men’s Euro Championships. He was described as a powerhouse in the sport.
Following the handballer’s death, IHF President Dr. Hassan Moustafa expressed the Federation’s sincere condolences to Quintana’s family and friends and the FC Porto team.
Portugal men’s national team coach Paulo Pereira made a statement on the Handball Federation of Portugal (FAP) website:
“I would have never imagined talking about Alfredo Quintana for such a reason. I do not have words that can explain what I feel now. Greatness, but also vulnerability as humans has no limits. We shared many great moments together and it is hard for me to accept that he will no longer be with us. He will be missed as a player, but above all, as a person spreading joy and enthusiasm.”
Quintana’s home team FC Porto also tweeted messages in tribute to one of their own:
“Our dearest Alfredo Quintana passed away today. You’ll always be remembered as one of ours. A true Dragon. Rest in peace eternal, Quintana.”
