Colombian cancer survivor initially caused worry as video showed her dropping to the ground
Linda Caicedo, the 18-year-old Colombian star forward and cancer survivor, caused concern during a Women's World Cup training session when she suddenly put a hand to her chest and voluntarily dropped to the ground. A video of the incident was posted on social media by DSPORTS, a Colombian media outlet.
It was later confirmed that she was alright. DSPORTS then shared another video of Caicedo juggling a ball, assuring fans that she was training normally alongside her teammates.
The Colombia team clarified on Friday that Caicedo was simply tired and reassured everyone about her well-being. Considering her vital role in the team's opening 2-0 win against South Korea, where she scored a goal, Caicedo's presence will be crucial for Colombia's upcoming group-stage match against Germany, a two-time Women's World Cup champion. A victory in this match would secure Colombia's place in the knockout round, while a draw or loss would leave their fate undecided until the last day of the group stage.
After the incident, the Colombia Football Federation conducted a medical evaluation of Caicedo, with the team's trainer, Andrés Gómez, confirming that the report was positive and that they found her condition to be fine. However, no details were given or asked regarding her availability for the Germany match.
“The report was positive, we found it good,” he said.
Caicedo has achieved remarkable feats in her young career, becoming the youngest goal scorer in the current Women's World Cup. She previously led Colombia to the final in the Under-17 Women's World Cup and was the tournament’s joint top-scorer.
Caicedo battled ovarian cancer at the age of 15 while already having made appearances for the Colombian senior national team and América de Cali, a professional club. Her determination and talent have been an inspiration to many, making her an integral part of Colombia's World Cup campaign.