Confusion as Katsina United player declared dead found alive in mortuary

Confusion has trailed the condition of the Katsina United defender, Ozor Chinedu, who collapsed during a pre-season friendly against Niger Tornadoes at the Muhammadu Dikko Stadium in Katsina State. 

The 18-year-old, recently signed from Kano Pillars, slumped on the pitch in the Gusau/Ahlan Pre-season Cup and was rushed to K-Dara Specialist Hospital, where doctors reportedly pronounced him d3ad on Tuesday, August 11, 2026. 
‎
 

The ‎Katsina United subsequently issued a condolence statement, while clubs including Heartland and Kano Pillars mourned the player on social media.
‎
‎

However, in a dramatic twist, mortuary staff at Katsina General Hospital later observed movement in his body. 

He was immediately transferred to the Intensive Care Unit and placed on oxygen.
‎
 

‎Media officer of Katsina United, Nasir Gide, confirmed the development, saying the player had been declared d3ad twice before signs of life were noticed.
‎
 

‎Heartland FC, one of Chinedu’s former clubs, also confirmed the incident, urging fans to pray for his recovery.
‎
 

‎As of Wednesday morning, Chinedu remains in critical condition at Katsina General Hospital, while the football community awaits for a medical report.