Tributes pour in for teenage Sydney soccer player who died suddenly after collapsing during match

The family of Sydney teenager Enzo Santiago Alves is in mourning this week after the young athlete died suddenly following a health event during a soccer match.

Enzo, 14, reportedly suffered a devastating stroke last weekend while playing at Arncliffe Park.

Hundreds of tributes have flowed for the teen who has been described as ‘a loyal friend’ and ‘loving son’.

‘On Sunday, March 9, 2025, our community was devastated by the tragic events that occurred, leading to the heartbreaking loss of our own brother and football superstar, 14-year-old Enzo Santiago Alves,’ a GoFundMe page created for Enzo’s family read.

‘Enzo was a kind-hearted, generous soul whose bright smile and warm presence touched everyone he met. He was a loving son, a loyal friend, and a joy to be around.

‘As his family faces this unimaginable loss, they are also grappling with the financial hardship that comes with such a devastating time.

Alves suffered a stroke while playing soccer last weekend in Sydney

‘We are raising funds to help support Enzo’s family as they navigate through this difficult period.

‘Every contribution, no matter how big or small, will provide much needed assistance and show them they are not alone.

‘Please join us in honouring Enzo’s memory and helping his family as they begin to heal.’

It’s understood that Enzo remained in a critical condition in hospital as his family held out hope he might recover.

One Facebook update on his condition read: ‘Tomorrow is a crucial day, Enzo will undergo a series of tests that will give us important results.

‘Keep sending positive energy. He is fighting like a true warrior.

‘He can hear us. Today after talking to him, his heart responded by beating stronger.’

Tributes for the teenager continue to be posted on social media.

‘Prayers to this young man’s family, friends and to all those who knew him,’ posted one person.

‘His impact on this world will never be forgotten. My heart goes out to Enzo’s family, friends, and teammates,’ another wrote.

The GoFundMe page set up for his family has raised nearly $20,000. 

A stroke occurs when the blood supply to the brain is cut off, killing brain cells. The damage can lead to long-term disability and affect how people think and feel.

The most common cause is fatty deposits or a blood clot blocking arteries supplying the brain – known as ischaemic stroke.

This happens due to cardiovascular disease, when blood vessels become narrowed or blocked over time by plaques.

These are made of cholesterol, calcium and other substances that build up in the artery walls in a process known as atherosclerosis.

The other type of attack – called hemorrhagic strokes – occurs when a blood vessel bursts in the brain and starts to leak its contents into the organ.

Experts are not quite sure what is behind a surge of strokes in young people, but high blood pressure, an unhealthy diet, heavy alcohol use and physical inactivity can increase the risk of stroke.