Arabic version: فقدان مأساوي لحارسة مرمى شابة يصدم مجتمع كرة القدم

Tributes have poured in for 15-year-old footballer Amelia Aplin, who tragically died after collapsing during a match. The Oxford United academy goalkeeper was playing in a Junior Premier League (JPL) game against Fulham at the club’s training centre in Horspath when the incident occurred on Saturday afternoon.

According to BBC News, Aplin was remembered as a “much loved, bright and talented” student at Aylesbury High School, where the headmistress described her as a remarkable young woman who brought joy to her community.

The JPL expressed profound sorrow over the loss, stating that Amelia was an “enormously talented goalkeeper” and a vital part of their program. Martin Brock, chief executive of the JPL, highlighted her leadership qualities and the void her passing has created within the football community.

Amelia was also a dedicated member of Wycombe District Swimming Club, which described her as a “beloved friend” and expressed their devastation at her untimely death. Fulham FC Women and several other clubs extended their condolences, sharing in the collective grief felt across the sport.

Thames Valley Police confirmed that Amelia was taken to the hospital following her collapse but unfortunately died later that evening. They stated there are no suspicious circumstances surrounding her death, which is now a matter for the coroner.