Rest in Peace, Patrick Ekeng

FIFA and the football fraternity are in mourning today, following the tragic passing of midfielder Patrick Ekeng in Romania.

The Dinamo Bucharest and Cameroon international was just 26, and collapsed in the 70th minute of the Romanian league game between Dinamo and Viitorul Constanta last night.

“I’m incredibly sad to learn of the passing of Cameroonian Patrick Ekeng” said FIFA President Gianni Infantino. “At moments like this, words seem insufficient.

Messages I’ve read online from teammates, his club in Romania, and former teams, show just how highly Patrick was regarded.

I would like to express my sincere condolences to his family and friends, and particularly to the staff, players and fans of Dinamo Bucharest, and the Cameroon national team. My thoughts are with everyone at this time.”

Ekeng started his career with Canon Yaoundé in Cameroon, and later went on to play for Le Mans in France, Lausanne in Switzerland, and Cordoba in Spain, before joining Dinamo Bucharest in January 2016.

The midfielder also represented his country, participating at the FIFA U-20 World Cup Egypt 2009, before progressing to the Indomitable Lions‘senior squad.

As a mark of respect, the Romanian Football Federation has postponed all matches this week and have rescheduled the Romanian Cup Final – due to be played on 10 May – to a later date.