Marco Angulo, a midfielder for FC Cincinnati, died from injuries sustained in a car accident that occurred on October 7 in Ecuador.
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of Marco – a husband and father, a brother and a son, a friend and teammate,” read a statement from FC Cincinnati. “He was a cheerful, friendly young man who lit up every room he entered. Our entire club mourns this tragedy, and we are thinking and praying for his family. He was a beloved member of the FC Cincinnati family, and he will continue to be to stay.” missed.”
Roberto Cabezas, a youth teammate of Angulo who played for Club Deportivo Independiente Juniors of Ecuador, was also killed.
Angulo, 22, was a passenger in the car that crashed into a metal fence on the Rumiñahui highway southeast of Quito. Angulo, who joined FC Cincinnati in December 2022 and was loaned to Ecuadorian side LDU Quito this season, suffered a lung contusion and serious head injuries. He was in an induced coma until he succumbed to the injuries on Monday evening.
“Marco was a talented young midfielder for FC Cincinnati last season, helping the club capture the Supporters’ Shield before continuing his development on loan with LDU Quito in his native Ecuador,” an MLS statement said. “At this difficult time, we extend our condolences to Marco’s wife and son, as well as to his entire family, friends, teammates and the football community. He will be greatly missed.”
Angulo also represented Ecuador at youth and senior levels, with the country’s football association saying in a statement that he “defended the colors of our country at every opportunity he got with his talent and dedication. Marco was not only an excellent player, but also a great teammate. He leaves a deep pain in our hearts.”