Crime and shock: hitmen kill Barcelona footballer in Guayaquil

Ecuadorian football is experiencing moments of shock following the murder of Mario Pineida, defender of Barcelona de Guayaquil. The 33-year-old player was the victim of a hitman attack in broad daylight in the Samanes neighborhood, north of the city, after being shot multiple times as he left a butcher shop.

The club officially confirmed the news and expressed its deep sorrow over the footballer's death. Pineida had an extensive career in Ecuadorian football, with stints at Independiente del Valle, El Nacional, and Barcelona, as well as an experience at Fluminense and participation in the Ecuadorian National Team.