Latest News
Biffo pays emotional tribute to late Katsina United defender Ozor
Nigeria Under-20 assistant coach Abdullahi Biffo has paid an emotional tribute to Chinedu Ozor, the Katsina United defender who collapsed and died during a pre-season friendly against Niger Tornadoes on Tuesday, 11 August 2026.
Ozor’s death came 37 years after Nigeria international Sam Okwaraji collapsed and died during a 1990 FIFA World Cup qualifying match against Angola in Lagos.
Biffo, who previously coached Ozor at Abia Warriors, recalled the defender’s versatility and commitment during the 2016/2017 and 2017/2018 campaigns.
“Rest well, Ozor. You left me with so many memories that I will never forget,” Biffo began.
“I still remember my first day as your coach at Abia Warriors. You came to me and confidently told me, “Coach, you can use me in any position from the back.”
“Those words were not just something you saidthey truly described the kind of player and person you were.
“I used you as a right-back, left-back, centre-back, and defensive midfielder, and in every position, you gave your very best.
“Your courage, commitment, versatility, and contribution played a significant role in helping us achieve our goals that season.
“I will forever cherish those memories and the time we shared. Your sudden departure is painful and difficult to accept.
“May Almighty God grant you eternal rest and give your family, friends, teammates, and everyone you left behind the strength to bear this great loss.
“Rest in peace, Ozor. You will never be forgotten.”
Ozor was 33 and had joined Katsina United on 14 July 2026 after completing a transfer from Kano Pillars.
Before moving to Kano Pillars for the 2025/2026 season, he had spent two seasons with Heartland of Owerri, playing during the 2023/2024 and 2024/2025 campaigns.
His collapse and subsequent death during the match involving his new club and Niger Tornadoes means three Nigerian players have now collapsed and died during matches in the country.
Nasarawa United defender Chineme Martins died after collapsing during a league game against Katsina United on 8 March 2025.
Earlier, on 12 December 2010, Ocean Boys FC defender Emmanuel Ogoli collapsed on the pitch during a professional league match. He was later pronounced dead at hospital.
There have also been similar tragedies involving Nigerian players on the international stage.
Amir Angwe, who played for Julius Berger of Lagos, collapsed and later died during an African Cup Winners’ Cup match at Onikan Stadium in Lagos. The competition is now known as the CAF Confederation Cup.
Okwaraji also died after collapsing at the National Stadium in Lagos on 12 August 1989 during Nigeria’s 1990 FIFA World Cup qualifying match against Angola.
Biffo’s tribute came as Nigerian football mourned another sudden death involving a professional player, with Ozor’s passing adding to a long list of on-field tragedies that have affected the country’s football community.
