October 21 – Indian football, which has just launched its much-touted Super League in an attempt to bolster interest, has suffered an untimely blow with a fatal tragedy as a result of a goal celebration in a state-level league game that went tragically wrong.
Midfielder Peter Biaksangzuala, 23, has died in hospital five days after attempting a somersault when scoring for Bethlehem Vengthlang FC – a club based in the north-east Indian province of Mizoram.
Biaksangzuala had just equalised against Chanmari West FC in the Mizoram Premier League and celebrated acrobatically, mistiming his landing and severely damaging his spinal cord. He underwent surgery but later died of his injuries.
A statement on the Mizoram Premier League’s official Facebook page read: “Bethlehem Vengthlang FC midfielder Peter Biaksangzuala lost his fight for survival after he suffered a fatal injury while celebrating his goal.
“It has been a sad day for Mizoram football and the demise of the footballer shook his team-mates, footballers and fans alike all over Mizoram.
“Peter was a defensive midfielder who had always been aggressive and hard working, a true team player. Like most defensive midfielders, he was excellent at reading the game, breaking up attacks and protecting his defenders. Peter’s club Bethlehem Vengthlang FC will retire his jersey no. 21.”
Bethlehem Vengthlang coach Danny Lalduhawma added: “Peter was a lad with good manner who always maintained his discipline on and off the pitch. I don’t think there are many like him.”
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