Alexandre Souza, a 24-year-old midfielder with Brazilian club Sampaio Corrêa-RJ, is recovering after collapsing on the pitch following a seizure during a Campeonato Carioca match against Flamengo at the Maracanã Stadium on February 7, 2026. The alarming incident occurred just eight minutes into the game, prompting an immediate stoppage as medical personnel rushed to attend to the player.
As Souza received treatment on the field, players from both teams were seen kneeling in prayer while awaiting the arrival of an ambulance, underscoring the gravity of the situation. He was subsequently transported to Quinta D’Or Hospital in Rio de Janeiro, where he regained consciousness while en route.
Medical officials said initial examinations showed no signs of neurological or cardiac damage. Souza remained under observation as doctors carried out further tests to determine the cause of the seizure. According to sources familiar with his care, physicians are investigating whether the episode could be linked to injuries he sustained in a serious motorcycle accident in January 2024, an incident that nearly left him tetraplegic and ruled him out of football for close to a year.
The midfielder later reassured supporters in a message posted on his social media accounts the following day, offering a brief but hopeful update on his condition. “The worst is over,” Souza wrote, thanking fans, teammates and medical staff for their support and concern.
Despite the lengthy interruption, the match eventually resumed after Souza was taken to hospital. Flamengo went on to secure a dominant 7–1 victory, though the result was largely overshadowed by concern for the player’s health.
