A game official in Canada’s Copa America match against Peru has collapsed in what was a frightening scene in Kansas City.
Guatemalan assistant referee Humberto Panjoj had to be removed on a stretcher after Canadian goalkeeper Maxime Crepeau urgently called for EMTs to rush to the official’s aid during added time in the first half (0-0) of Tuesday’s game.
In what was an encouraging sign, Panjoj reportedly stood to his feet before being placed on the stretcher.
‘Second assistant referee fell to the ground,’ ESPN’s Luis Miguel Echegaray wrote on X. ‘Game immediately stops. It’s extremely hot here in Kansas City. Hoping he’s okay. Being attended to right now.’
Fans at Children’s Mercy Park – home of Sporting Kansas City – applauded as Panjoj was removed on a stretcher. The heat index in Kansas City was over 100 degrees with 51 percent humidity during the first half of Tuesday’s game.
Maxime Crepeau of Canada calls for medical assistance during the CONMEBOL Copa America
Guatemalan assistant referee Humberto Panjoj is aided by medical team during Copa America
Panjoj was eventually replaced on the sideline when the teams emerged out of the tunnel for the second half.
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