Liga de Quito defender Christian Cruz suffered a horrific triple fracture in last night's Copa Libertadores quarter final tie against Boca Juniors.
The 27-year-old broke his tibia, fibula and ankle when he blocked a powerful attempt on goal by Boca striker Carlos Tevez in Wednesday's cup clash.
Cruz appeared to land awkwardly on his right leg after his standing foot got caught in the ground.
LDU players surrounded the player but couldn't bare to look at his injury as the full-back screamed in agony.
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Even his manager, Pablo Repetto, looked away as doctors sprinted to assist him on the La Bombonera pitch.
Boca Juniors striker Lisandro Lopez was praised for his reaction to the injury. The 36-year-old noticed that Cruz had suffered a serious injury and sprinted over to the sidelines to pick up a nearby stretcher.
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He carried it onto the pitch so his opposition player could be treated faster.
It was reported after the game that Cruz is expected to be out for six months.
LDU Quito's official Twitter account sent their best wishes to the Ecuadorian defender following the incident.
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"We are with you 'Chavito' @geo_53." they said. "Our thoughts, spirits and strength are with you. From this you get stronger.
"Thank you for everything you leave on court for our colors. Speedy recovery."
We send our best wishes to Christian Cruz. We hope to see you back on the pitch sooner rather than later.
Featured Image Credit:Topics:ย Football News, Football, injury, Boca Juniors
