In a deeply moving and unique tribute, a teenage footballer who tragically died in a road accident has been honoured with a symbolic 'last goal' scored using his own coffin during his funeral service. Alexander Zaracho, a 19-year-old striker from Paraguay, reportedly lost his life after a speeding motorist collided with the motorcycle on which he was a passenger.
A Life Cut Short and a Prolonged Battle
According to local media reports, Zaracho fought valiantly for his life for several months at the Itaugua National Hospital before ultimately succumbing to his injuries. His passing has sent shockwaves through his local community and football club, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and team spirit.
A Footballing Farewell at Home Ground
The day after his death, Zaracho's family, friends, and teammates gathered to give him a fitting football send-off at the home ground of Club 30 de Agosto in Capiata. In an emotional ceremony that blended grief with celebration of his passion, his casket was carefully placed on the penalty spot of the pitch.
One of his teammates then stepped forward and kicked a football against the coffin, causing it to bounce into the net as if scoring a penalty. This poignant moment was met with applause from all present, followed by the release of white balloons into the sky as a final tribute to the young athlete.
Club Mourns a Beloved Captain
A spokesperson for Club 30 de Agosto expressed the profound loss felt by the entire organization, stating: 'His departure leaves an immense void in our club and in all those who shared time with him on and off the field. Alexander was an example of leadership, commitment, and camaraderie, values that will forever remain in the club's history. Rest in peace, captain.'
The club shared their grief publicly, posting: 'Club 30 de Agosto de Capiatá in mourning for the departure of its captain. The sports community says goodbye with deep pain to Alexander Daniel Zaracho Gómez, captain and reference of Club 30 de Agosto. The young man, who was riding as a passenger on a motorcycle, was run over by a...'
A Lasting Legacy of Sportsmanship
This extraordinary funeral tribute highlights how football communities worldwide often create unique rituals to honour their fallen members. By incorporating Zaracho's coffin into a symbolic penalty kick, his teammates ensured his final connection to the sport he loved was both memorable and respectful.
The incident serves as a sobering reminder of road safety concerns while demonstrating how sports can provide meaningful frameworks for processing grief and celebrating life. Zaracho's memory will undoubtedly continue to inspire his club and community, with his 'last goal' becoming part of local football folklore.
