Gabriel Rodrigues Lima, 17‑year‑old Rio Verde footballer, dies

Gabriel Rodrigues Lima, a 17‑year‑old footballer nicknamed “Cafú”, died on Thursday, 30 July, in Rio Verde, Goiás, Brazil. He was a member of the Independente de Rio Verde youth team; the cause of death has not been disclosed.

The young athlete’s passing sparked widespread mourning in the community. Independente de Rio Verde posted a tribute, emphasizing his dedication and spirit, while Goiás Esporte Clube’s youth division also expressed solidarity with his family and friends. Local councilor Professor Leonardo Lacerda highlighted the loss as a void for the city’s sporting community.

Funeral services were held at the Capela Pax Rio Verde in the Residencial Veneza, and he was buried at Cemitério São Sebastião in Rio Verde.