Footballer dies from goal celebration injury

An Indian footballer has died five days after sustaining a serious injury while celebrating a goal.

23-year-old Peter Biaksangzuala played for Bethlehem Vengthlang FC in the Mizoram Premier League in India.

Biaksangzuala was a defensive midfielder and according to a statement on the League’s Facebook page “was not known to score many goals”.

When he scored against Chanmari West FC on October 14 it was his first league goal and he celebrated with a leaping somersault.

The celebrations turned to shock when he landed awkwardly and collapsed on the pitch. Teammates and the ref immediately called for assistance and he was rushed to hospital, where a CT scan revealed a serious spinal cord injury.

Last night the league confirmed he had died from his injuries:

“Bethlehem Vengthlang FC midfielder Peter Biaksangzuala lost his fight for survival after he suffered a fatal injury while celebrating his goal. It has been a sad day for Mizoram football and the demise of the footballer shook his teammates, footballers and fans alike all over Mizoram. Peter's club Bethlehem Vengthlang FC will retire his jersey no. 21.”