Terrible news out of South America, as the uncle of Derlis Gonzalez suffered a heart attack and died while celebrating Paraguay’s win over Brazil in the 2015 Copa America yesterday.
Gonzalez scored the equalizer for Paraguay from the penalty spot in the 72nd minute, and then scored the game-winner in the shootout to eliminate Brazil and send La Albirroja to the semifinals.
[ RECAP: Paraguay ousts Brazil in penalties ]
His uncle Irrazabal Manuel, 44, was watching the match with friends in Paraguay and died of a heart attack while celebrating, which was reported by Paraguayan newspaper Ultima Hora.
The 21-year-old striker posted a picture of his uncle on his Twitter page, with a caption that translates to “Why today uncle? Why? You left me after a heart attack because I gave you so much joy and so much happiness. I can’t believe it.”
Paraguay is set to face Argentina in the semifinals on Wednesday, and Ramon Diaz’s men will have to rally around their teammate to try and pull off another upset in the Copa America.
Gonzalez signed a five-year contract with FC Basel last May, and scored in the Champions League for the Swiss-side against Real Madrid this season. His goal against Brazil was his first competitive tally for Paraguay.