Ecuadorian football has been plunged into mourning after 33-year-old Mario Pineida, a left-back for Barcelona SC, was tragically killed in an armed attack in Guayaquil.

The incident occurred in the Samanes 4 area, in the northern part of the city, when two gunmen on a motorcycle opened fire on three people outside a local butcher shop.

Pineida, who was with his mother and another woman at the time, died instantly, according to the National Police.

The attack claimed at least two lives, leaving the community in shock. Authorities are investigating the motive behind the attack, but details remain scarce.

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Pineida’s death sent ripples of grief across Ecuador and beyond. The defender had enjoyed a decorated career with Barcelona SC, winning league titles in 2016 and 2020, and he was a respected figure in the Ecuadorian national team.

His career also included stints at prominent clubs such as Fluminense in Brazil, El Nacional, and Independiente del Valle, showcasing his talent both domestically and internationally.

Tributes poured in from teammates, fans, and the wider football community, all remembering Pineida as a dedicated professional and a humble, kind-hearted individual off the pitch.

Barcelona SC expressed “deep sorrow” over the loss of one of their “most cherished players,” vowing to honor his memory.



FKA/JE