26-year-old Cameroonian international Patrick Ekeng died yesterday, having collapsed during Dinamo-Vitorul game. Now Stadionul Stefan Cel Mare is turning into a shrine to his memory.

During Friday’s league clash between Dinamo and Vitorul Constanta in Bucharest, 26-year-old Patrick Ekeng collapsed onto the field and fell unconscious. Despite rescue efforts he died in the ambulance, during transfer to hospital.

After the tragic event speculations began to surface about whether Dinamo and the medical services were prepared for the accident. Dinamo released a statement claiming all procedures were implemented properly and the medical presence/actions were compliant with protocols.

In the aftermath of Ekeng’s death, Stadionul Stefan Cel Mare has changed into a large shrine in his memory. Dinamo is constantly displaying Patrick’s photo on the giant screen, while supporters hoisted a black flag onto the stadium flagpole. Also several banners were hanged along the fence, all remembering Patrick.

From early hours supporters have been entering the field and leaving flowers and candles, a move encouraged by the club. As the news spread, players of derby rivals Steaua and Partizan also came to pay their respects. Officials from various other clubs, including the rugby team Universitatea Cluj, also came to the stadium with others expressing the will to come later.

Phot: ProSport.ro

Phot: ProSport.ro

Phot: ProSport.ro

Phot: ProSport.ro