According to Portuguese media, the incident occurred at around 6:00 p.m. on August 2 (local time), when Jeferson Merli and his girlfriend went swimming in the Homem River, in the town of Terras de Bouro, northwest Portugal.
Goalkeeper Jeferson Merli died while bathing in the river with his girlfriend (Photo: Getty).
After diving into the water, he suddenly went missing, forcing his girlfriend to immediately call for help. Merli's body was not found until around 9:30 p.m.
Merli lives in Braga, about a 40-minute drive from the scene of the accident. The goalkeeper plays for GD Caldelas, a club based in nearby Amares. He had just renewed his contract with the club before the accident.
In an official statement, GD Caldelas expressed their deep condolences for the passing of the 27-year-old goalkeeper: “Jeferson, who has just renewed his contract with the club, not only left his professional contributions on the pitch, but also left his mark with his dedication, team spirit and sincere affection for everyone.
Jeferson Merli passed away at the peak of his career (Photo: Instagram).
In this time of grief, GD Caldelas would like to express his deepest condolences to his family, friends and all those who had the opportunity to accompany him. The club will always remember Jeferson's commitment and the mark he left on the collective.
Rest in peace, Jefferson.”
Jeferson Merli was born in Vista Alegre do Alto, Sao Paulo state (Brazil), and began his career at Uniao club in Mato Grosso do Sul state. In 2019, he moved abroad to play, playing for several clubs in Spain and Portugal, before officially joining GD Caldelas in early 2024.
Merli's sudden passing was a huge shock to the local football community, especially those who worked and associated with him.
Source: https://dantri.com.vn/the-thao/thu-mon-brazil-qua-doi-thuong-tam-o-tuoi-27-20250805120419220.htm
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