Estevan Wyllian succumbs to altitude sickness during match in Bolivia

'Brazilian star prospect' Estevan Wyllian (18, Palmeiras) could not help but falter in the 'visiting team's graveyard.' He could not hold back his vomit during the match.

Globo reported on the 25th (Korean time) that "Estevan was substituted after vomiting while playing at high altitude. He was not feeling well at the start of the second half."

Palmeiras defeated Bolivar 3-2 in the third round of Group G of the Copa Libertadores 2025 organized by the South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL), held on the 25th at Estadio Hernando Siles located in Bolivia's Raphas.

On that day, Estevan was selected to start as a right winger. He made a strong contribution by scoring the team's second goal in the first half. However, he suddenly collapsed on the field during the 13th minute of the second half, vomited, and was carried off on a stretcher.

Palmeiras quickly substituted Mauricio for Estevan. This ultimately turned out to be a blessing in disguise. Mauricio scored the winning goal in the 28th minute of the second half, bringing the score to 3-2.

Globo noted, "Estevan had already shown signs of fatigue toward the end of the first half. Nevertheless, he returned to the field after halftime. But during his first move, he sprinted and requested to be substituted."

The media explained, "In the 13th minute of the second half, Palmeiras allowed a goal, and Estevan collapsed to the ground. He immediately vomited and had to be carried away on a stretcher," adding that "Estevan felt nauseated sitting on the bench and was administered medication by the medical staff."

The reason Estevan vomited on the field was due to Bolivia's unique high altitude. After the match, he said, "It took some time to get used to it. Unfortunately, I could not keep playing. It was definitely an altitude problem. This is unreal," shaking his head.

In fact, Estadio Hernando Siles boasts an altitude of 3,637 meters, earning it the nickname of 'visiting team's graveyard.' In the past, 'God of Football' Lionel Messi also made headlines for vomiting in this stadium. Estevan, known as 'Messi New (Little Messi),' faced a similar fate as his idol Messi.

Meanwhile, Estevan is one of the most promising talents in Brazil. He signed a formal professional contract with Palmeiras right after turning 16 in April 2023. The contract period is three years, and the buyout clause reached a staggering €60 million (approximately 97.8 billion won).

Primarily playing as a winger, Estevan made a name for himself in the Brazilian league last season with 15 goals and 10 assists in 45 matches. His explosive speed and Brazilian-style soft dribbling and ball control skills captivated viewers. He is also known for his powerful kicks using his left foot, managing set pieces as well.

Estevan has already made his debut for the Brazilian national team. He first played in an A match in September last year, substituting in for the match against Ecuador, and has since appeared in three more matches. Last month, he was also called up for the South American qualifiers for the 2026 North American World Cup but did not get to play.

Estevan has already decided on his next destination. He is set to transfer to Chelsea in the Premier League at the end of this season. Chelsea succeeded in signing Estevan for a fee of up to €51 million (approximately 83.2 billion won) after fierce competition for his signing last June. The contract period is reportedly until 2033.

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