Marco Angulo, FC Cincinnati midfielder, died from his injuries in a car accident on October 7 in Ecuador.
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of Marco – a husband and father, a brother and son, a friend and teammate,” read a statement from FC Cincinnati. “He was a joyful and kind young man who lit up every room he entered. Our entire club mourns this tragedy, and we think and pray for his family. He was a cherished member of the FC Cincinnati family, and he will be missed.”
Roberto Cabezas, a young teammate of Angulo who played for Club Deportivo Independiente Juniors of Ecuador, was also killed.
Angulo, 22, was a passenger in the car that crashed into a metal barrier on the Rumiñahui highway, southeast of Quito. Angulo, who joined FC Cincinnati in December 2022 and was loaned this season to Ecuadorian club LDU Quito, suffered a pulmonary contusion and serious head injuries. He was in an induced coma until he succumbed to his injuries Monday evening.
“Marco was a talented young midfielder for FC Cincinnati last season, helping the club win the Supporters’ Shield before continuing his development on loan with LDU Quito in his native Ecuador,” read a statement of the MLS. “During this difficult time, we send our condolences to Marco’s wife and son, as well as to all his family, friends, teammates and the football community. He will be greatly missed.”
Angulo also represented Ecuador at youth and senior level in the National Football Federation, saying in a statement that he “defended the colors of our country at every opportunity he had with his talent and dedication. Marco was not only an exceptional player, but also a great teammate. He leaves a deep pain in our hearts.