Palmeiras forward Estevao celebrated his 18th birthday in unforgettable style on Thursday, scoring his team’s second goal in a thrilling 3-2 Copa Libertadores victory against Bolivar. Unfortunately, the celebration took a dark turn as he collapsed on the pitch, vomited, and was ultimately stretchered off due to the high altitude of La Paz.
Estevao increased his team’s advantage just before the halftime break, but he appeared fatigued as the first half drew to a close. In the second half, he fell to the ground, unable to continue, and was carried off around the hour mark.
Even while sitting on the bench, Estevao was still feeling unwell and received medical attention from the Palmeiras team during the game, which took place at an altitude of approximately 3,650 metres.
“It took me a while to get used to it, and unfortunately, I couldn’t continue,” he told Paramount+. “The altitude really hit me. It’s surreal here.”
His substitute, Mauricio, went on to score the decisive goal, ensuring Palmeiras’ perfect start to Group G with three wins from three matches.
Estevao was signed by Chelsea last year for a reported fee of £29 million ($38.54 million) and is slated to join the Premier League club in 2025.
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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