The club said Ozor was involved in its friendly against Niger Tornadoes FC when the incident occurred
Katsina United Football Club has confirmed the death of newly signed defender Chinedu Ozor after he suffered a medical emergency during a pre-season friendly on Tuesday.
In a statement, Katsina United described the development as a tragedy and expressed condolences to Ozor’s family and loved ones.
“We mourn the tragic passing of our newly signed player, Ozoh Chinedu, following a medical emergency during today’s friendly match against Niger Tornadoes FC.”
The club added: “Our thoughts, prayers, and strength are with his family and loved ones. Rest on Warrior.”
The statement gives no further details about the medical emergency or the circumstances surrounding the player’s death.
Rivers United also expressed its condolences to Katsina United and Ozor’s family.
The club said Ozor reportedly died in the early hours of Tuesday, August 11, after he was rushed to hospital following the medical emergency during the friendly at the Muhammadu Dikko Stadium in Katsina.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, loved ones, and to the management, players, staff, and supporters of Katsina United FC,” Rivers United said in a statement signed by its General Manager, Okey Kpalukwu.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Nigerian football family during this difficult time.”
Ozor had recently joined Katsina United as the club strengthened its squad ahead of the 2026/27 Nigeria Premier Football League season.
Available football records identify him as a Nigerian defender and show that he had previously played for Kano Pillars and Heartland FC among other clubs in the NPFL before signing for Katsina United,
Transfer records show that Ozor moved from Heartland to Kano Pillars in July 2025 and subsequently joined Katsina United.
He featured for Kano Pillars during the 2025/26 NPFL season, including a March league fixture against Niger Tornadoes.
His death comes as Nigerian clubs continue their preparations for the new NPFL season through pre-season tournaments and friendly matches.
The circumstances surrounding the medical emergency have not been disclosed by Katsina United.
The Nigerian football community has continued to mourn the player, with clubs and supporters extending condolences to his family and Katsina United.
