Footballer dies aged just 15 after collapsing during 'tragic' academy match as tributes paid

Oxford United's Amelia Aplin, 15, tragically died after collapsing during a youth match against Fulham on Saturday

Scott Trotter and Isaac Seelochan Senior Sports Journalist

15:29, 08 Mar 2026Updated 15:29, 08 Mar 2026

An academy player has died at Oxford(Image: Burton Mail)

A 15-year-old academy player tragically died after collapsing during a match on Saturday. Oxford United's Amelia Aplin was participating in a youth game against Fulham when the heartbreaking incident occurred.

In a statement, Oxford United Women announced: "It is with immense sadness that we announce the passing of 15-year-old Academy player, Amelia Aplin. Amelia collapsed during a Girls' Academy game against Fulham at the club's training centre in Horspath yesterday afternoon.

"The thoughts and sincere condolences from everyone at Oxford United are with Amelia's family, friends, teammates and coaches. We would like to place on record our appreciation for the efforts of the medical staff at both Oxford United and Fulham Football Club, along with the emergency services.

[A close-up view of yellow corner flags positioned on a sports field with a partially visible stadium in the background, under an overcast sky.]

An Oxford United academy player has died, aged just 15(Image: Burton Mail)

"The club will offer support to Amelia's family, players, coaches and staff impacted by this tragic event. We would ask that the family's privacy is respected at this incredibly difficult time."

JOIN US ON FB! Get all the best sports news and much more on our Facebook page

Tributes flooded in for the gifted young player following the public announcement of the tragic news. The FA stated: "We are deeply saddened by the tragic passing of Amelia.

"Our thoughts go out to her family, friends and everyone associated with Oxford United Women at this incredibly difficult time."

Fulham FC Women said: "Everyone at Fulham Football Club is shocked and saddened to hear this news. Our thoughts are with Ameila's family and friends, and all associated with Oxford United FC."

Local rivals Oxford City also expressed their sympathies. They stated: "Everyone associated with Oxford City FC are sending our sincere condolences to the family of Amelia Aplin and to our friends at @OUFCOfficial during this incredibly sad time."

Content cannot be displayed without consent

Exeter City Women: "Sending all our love and condolences to everyone at the club and Amelia's loved ones from all of us".

Chestham United women commented: "How tragic. Sending our love to Amelia's friends and family."

Sports commentator Jacqui Oatley simply remarked: "Tragic".

A fan on X added: "What sad sad news, puts things into perspective when things like this happens and makes you grateful for the love you get to live. Thoughts with her family and friends. Rest in peace. Forever a yellow."

Article continues below

Bristol Rovers women said: "Everyone at Bristol Rovers is deeply saddened to hear this news. Our thoughts are with Amelia's family and friends, and with everyone connected to Oxford United FC".

FREE William Hill Shop Bets inside your Star every day of Cheltenham

[2_WilliamHill_Cheltenham_Native_810x539_DS-1.jpg]

Don't miss a FREE shop bet inside your favourite racing paper every day of the Cheltenham festival! Plus, get expert inside from our top tipsters with pullouts every day from Tuesday March 10 - Friday March 13, 2026 covering the runners, riders, and everything you need to make the 102nd Cheltenham festival the biggest ever. Find out more here.

Bet 18+ only. Terms and conditions apply. See paper for details.

[Dailystar Icon]

ENJOYED THIS STORY?

Choose Daily Star as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.

[Google Preferred Source Badge]

At Reach and across our entities we and our partners use information collected through cookies and other identifiers from your device to improve experience on our site, analyse how it is used and to show personalised advertising. You can opt out of the sale or sharing of your data, at any time clicking the "Do Not Sell or Share my Data" button at the bottom of the webpage. Please note that your preferences are browser specific. Use of our website and any of our services represents your acceptance of the use of cookies and consent to the practices described in our Privacy Notice and Terms and Conditions.