Katsina United Football Club has announced the death of their newly signed defender Chinedu Ozor. He died after a medical emergency during a pre-season friendly on Tuesday.
The club said Ozor was playing in a match against Niger Tornadoes FC when the incident happened.
In a statement, Katsina United called it a tragedy and sent their condolences to Ozor’s family and friends.
“We mourn the tragic passing of our newly signed player, Ozor Chinedu, following a medical emergency during today’s friendly match against Niger Tornadoes FC.”
The club added: “Our thoughts, prayers, and strength are with his family and loved ones. Rest on Warrior.”
The statement did not provide more details about the medical emergency or how the player died.
Rivers United also shared their condolences with Katsina United and Ozor’s family.
They said Ozor reportedly passed away in the early hours of Tuesday, August 11, after being rushed to the hospital following the incident during the friendly at the Muhammadu Dikko Stadium in Katsina.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, loved ones, and to the management, players, staff, and supporters of Katsina United FC,” Rivers United said in a statement signed by their General Manager, Okey Kpalukwu.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Nigerian football family during this difficult time.”
Ozor had just joined Katsina United as the club prepared for the 2026/27 Nigeria Premier Football League season.
Football records show he was a Nigerian defender. He had played for Kano Pillars and Heartland FC among other clubs in the NPFL before signing for Katsina United.
Transfer records indicate that Ozor moved from Heartland to Kano Pillars in July 2025 and then joined Katsina United.
He played for Kano Pillars during the 2025/26 NPFL season, including a league match against Niger Tornadoes in March.
His death comes as Nigerian clubs get ready for the new NPFL season with pre-season tournaments and friendly matches.
Katsina United has not shared details about the medical emergency.
The Nigerian football community continues to mourn the player, with clubs and supporters sending condolences to his family and Katsina United.
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