The 25-year-old goalkeeper collapsed on the pitch straight after saving a penalty against Westrozebeke at Sint-Eloois-Winkel, West Flanders Province.

Emergency ran onto the pitch to try to resuscitate the goalkeeper, using a defibrillator but it was too late.

Shortly after he was taken to the hospital, Espeel was confirmed dead.

The club in a statement expressed sadness and sorrow and condoled the player’s family and friends.

“Winkel Sport is in very deep mourning at the sudden passing of goalkeeper Arne Espeel,” the club stated.