Uruguayan Football Legend Sandrino Castec in Critical Condition

Sandrino Castec, a legendary Uruguayanfootballerand idol of Universidad de Chile, is fighting for his life in the Intensive Care Unit of Hospital Sótero del Río. The 63-year-old was admitted two weeks ago due to septic shock caused by an infection, and despite initial signs of improvement, he has now developed a new intestinal infection that has gravely complicated his recovery.

Castec's son shared the distressing news, stating, "Nuevamente está cursando con una infección intestinal, una nueva bacteria, la cual hizo retroceder su avance y se encuentra nuevamente en estado de gravedad, intubado, como el primer día que ingreso." The family is anxiously awaiting the effects of new medications to combat the infection in the coming days.

Known affectionately as the "Bomber," Castec is a revered figure inChilean football. He played a pivotal role in Universidad de Chile's success, particularly in their 1979 Copa Chile conquest. During his tenure with the team from 1977 to 1989, Castec scored an impressive 63 goals in 201 games. His illustrious career also included stints with Audax Italiano, Cobresal, Deportes Valdivia, and Cruz Azul de México.

As Castec battles this critical health challenge, the football community has rallied around him with an outpouring of support. His son invited fans and friends to join a prayer chain, saying, "Como familia queremos agradecerle a los hinchas, a todos sus amigos, por la preocupación, y los quiero invitar a una cadena de oración el día de hoy viernes a las 9 de la noche, todo esto por mi viejo, quien está luchando el partido más importante de su vida."

Sandrino Castec remains in a grave state, intubated and under close medical supervision in the ICU. The coming days will be crucial in determining his response to the new course of treatment. As Universidad de Chile prepares to faceDeportes Iquiquein a national tournament match this weekend, the thoughts and prayers of the football world are with the ailing legend, hoping for a miraculous recovery in his most challenging battle yet.

Key Takeaways

• Sandrino Castec, 63, in ICU with septic shock and intestinal infection.
• Initially showed improvement, but new infection has worsened his condition.
• Family awaits effects of new medications to combat infection.
• Castec is a Uruguayan football legend and idol of Universidad de Chile.
• Football community rallies around him with support and prayer.