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Striker Bruno Boban, 25, was mid-game when the ball hit him.

He initially continued to play but shortly after fell and lost consciousness.

Medics were quickly on the scene and spent 40 minutes trying to revive him.

Bruno played for Marsonia, a club in his native Croatia and was a “leading goal scorer”.

(Image: instagram)

(Image: twitter)

With 15 minutes played of Marsonia's clash with Slavonija Pozega, Boban was hit in the chest with the ball from close range.

After collapsing players from both sides realised the gravity of the situation and called for aid.

Medics tried to resuscitate him but he was pronounced dead shortly after.

His teammates and opponents struggled to fight back the tears as they watched the tragedy unfold.

The cause of death has yet to be confirmed.

Boban posted a picture to his Instagram account in 2014 of him lying in a hospital bed wearing a white gown.

He was born in the eastern city of Pozega and his club NK Marsonia, based in Slavonski Brod, was founded in 1909.

News of his tragic death comes three weeks after Fiorentina captain Davide Astori passed away in his sleep before a Serie A match with Udinese.