A terrifying medical emergency overshadowed Tuesday's Copa América match between Canada and Peru as assistant referee Humberto Panjoj collapsed on the field amid soaring temperatures.
A harrowing scene unfolded during the heated Copa América clash between Canada and Peru when assistant referee Humberto Panjoj suddenly succumbed to a medical emergency on the field. Panjoj's collapse occurred during stoppage time in the first half as the match reached its boiling point under unforgiving heat conditions.
Panjoj, who had been officiating along the non-shaded sideline at Children's Mercy Park in Kansas City, staggered before collapsing onto the unforgiving turf. The sight of the official lying motionless sent a chill down the spines of players and spectators alike. Canada goalkeeper Maxime Crepeau reacted swiftly, rushing to Panjoj's aid and frantically signaling for medical assistance.
Assistant Referee Collapses During Scorching Copa América Match
With the drama unfolding on the field, Crepeau's focus swiftly shifted from the game to the stricken official's well-being. "At that point, football does not matter," he later remarked. Panjoj briefly regained consciousness but was ultimately removed from the field on a stretcher, leaving a cloud of concern hanging over the contest.
The incident sparked a chorus of criticism, with Crepeau expressing his dismay over the lack of a mandatory water break at the 30-minute mark, a customary practice in such extreme heat. "Health of the people on the field – players and officials – that needs to be looked at," he stressed.
Assistant Referee Collapses During Scorching Copa América Match
According to The Kansas City Star, the heat index at the time of the match's 5 p.m. kickoff was approximately 100 degrees Fahrenheit, making the playing conditions extremely challenging for both athletes and referees. TSN later reported that Panjoj had suffered from dehydration.
Despite the adverse conditions, Canada managed to secure a hard-fought 1-0 victory, courtesy of a 74th-minute strike from Jonathan David. The win marked Canada's first triumph over a South American opponent in 24 years, but the victory was overshadowed by the harrowing incident involving Panjoj.
Assistant Referee Collapses During Scorching Copa América Match
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