Ecuadorian Footballer Marco Angulo, 22, Dies After Car Crash Injuries

Ecuadorian international Marco Angulo, who had earned three caps for his country, has passed away at the age of 22. His club announced his death, which occurred just over a month after he sustained severe injuries in a car accident. The midfielder for LDU Quito had been hospitalized since the incident on October 7, which took place in the southern part of Ecuador’s capital, Quito. According to reports from Ecuador, he underwent multiple operations and remained in intensive care for more than a week before his death on Monday night. In a statement released on Tuesday morning, LDU Quito, a club competing in Ecuador’s top football division, expressed: “With deep sorrow and sadness, we regret to have to inform you of the death of our dear player Marco Angulo.” The club added, “We convey our condolences to his family and his loved ones. His passing is an irreparable loss which will leave an indelible mark in our hearts.” FC Cincinnati, his parent club from Major League Soccer, stated they were “heartbroken to share” the news of his demise. Following one season in the United States, Angulo had joined LDU Quito on a loan agreement, which included an option to purchase him in March 2024. He had played 16 matches for the club, with his final appearance occurring on October 6, the day prior to the car accident. His debut for Ecuador took place in November 2022, when he entered as a substitute during a 0-0 draw against Iraq, accumulating three international caps. The Ecuadorian Football Association, the sport’s governing body, issued a statement reading: “The Ecuadorian Football Association expresses its deepest sympathy over the death of Marco Angulo.” The statement continued, “Marco was not only an outstanding player but also a great team-mate. He leaves a deep sorrow in our hearts, especially in those of us who went with him on countless trips, and to training camps and matches. Rest in peace, Angulito.” Ecuadorian reports indicate that Independiente del Valle footballer Roberto Cabezas and Victor Carcopa, a friend, also perished in the same accident. Two additional passengers were in the vehicle at the time, and their current condition remains undisclosed.