Ecuadorian football has been shaken by the murder of Mario Pineida, a 33-year-old left-back for Barcelona SC, who was killed in an armed attack in the Samanes 4 area of northern Guayaquil.
The attack occurred when two motorcyclists opened fire on three people outside a butcher shop. Pineida was reportedly with his mother and another woman at the time of the shooting and died instantly. Authorities confirmed that at least two people were killed in the incident.
Pineida enjoyed a successful career in Ecuadorian and South American football. He won league titles with Barcelona SC in 2016 and 2020, represented the Ecuadorian national team, and also played for clubs including Fluminense, El Nacional, and Independiente del Valle.
News of his death has sent shockwaves through Ecuadorian football, with clubs, fans, and teammates expressing deep sorrow over the tragic loss.
The National Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the attack, which has sparked concern over safety and violence in Guayaquil.
