The football world is in shock after the sudden death of Eder Smic Valencia, a promising 16-year-old striker from Colombia.
Just days before he was set to join Major League Soccer’s New York Red Bulls, Valencia lost his life in a car crash while on holiday in Guachene, near Cali.
Reports suggest that the vehicle he was travelling in collided with a tanker truck early on Sunday morning, and authorities have now launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident.
A Talent Destined for Big Things
Valencia had been attracting attention both locally and internationally.
The teenage forward had impressed at the Under-16 Bulls Cup earlier this year and was reportedly preparing to fly to the United States to complete his move to the Red Bulls.
His talent had also earned him a place on Colombia’s Under-17 national team roster for the upcoming 2026 South American Championship.
Coaches and scouts alike were keeping a close eye on his development, with many predicting a bright future in professional football.
Heartbreak for Club and Community
His club, Academia Alemana Popayán (AAFP), confirmed the tragic news, highlighting their grief at losing a player with so much potential.
AAFP, known for nurturing talent capable of reaching the professional level, released a statement saying: “It is with deep sorrow that we report the passing of our player Eder Smic Valencia Ambuila in a car accident while on vacation in Guachene.
We are supporting his family and will honour his memory here at AAFP. He will forever be in our hearts.”
Mourning a Future That Never Was
The tragedy has left Valencia’s family, teammates, and coaches devastated.
Tributes are pouring in from across the football community, mourning a young striker whose career—and life—was cut tragically short.
His dream move to Major League Soccer and an international career filled with potential will now remain unfulfilled, leaving heartbreak for all who knew him and followed his journey.