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Former Nigerian international Michael Eneramo has tragically passed away after collapsing during a friendly match on Friday.
The 40-year-old reportedly suffered a cardiac arrest just five minutes into the second half of the game, according to initial reports from the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF).
Eneramo had participated fully in the first half of the match, which took place in Ungwan Yelwa, Kaduna, on Friday morning.
“This is heartbreaking. I am at a loss for words right now,” expressed NFF General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi, reflecting the shock felt across the football community.
Eneramo had the honor of representing Nigeria in 10 international matches, opting to play for his home country despite being offered the chance to represent Tunisia, where he had a successful club career and considered obtaining citizenship.
He was nicknamed “The Tank” by fans of Espérance Sportive de Tunis, which he helped to “a number of silverwares,” the NFF said. He also played in Turkey for Sivasspor, Beşiktaş and Başakşehir among others.
Eneramo made his Nigeria debut against Jamaica in a friendly in February 2009, then scored his first international goal against Ireland in the next game three months later, also a friendly.