Assistant Referee Collapses in Copa América Match

Humberto Panjoj, an assistant referee, suffered a medical emergency and collapsed on the field during Tuesday's Copa América match between Canada and Peru.

A terrifying scene unfolded during Tuesday's Copa América match between Canada and Peru when an assistant referee suddenly collapsed on the field amid scorching temperatures.

Humberto Panjoj suffered a medical emergency during stoppage time in the first half of Canada's 1-0 win over Peru.

Assistant Referee Collapses in Copa América Match

Panjoj, who had been running on the non-shaded part of the stadium in Kansas City, collapsed on the field and appeared to remain motionless. Canada goalkeeper Maxime Crepeau immediately ran over and motioned for medical attention.

According to The Kansas City Star, Crepeau said after the match that he had seen the official fall, and he quickly turned his attention away from the game to focus on Panjoj's health.

Assistant Referee Collapses in Copa América Match

"At that point, football does not matter," he said.

"I was happy that he was conscious," he continued. "I got the news that he’s fine now, so thank God. But we need to address that."

Assistant Referee Collapses in Copa América Match

Crepeau said that despite the soaring temperatures, players were not given a water break at the 30-minute mark, which is the custom during such playing conditions, according to the report.

"I don’t care what people say, health of the people on the field – players and officials – that needs to be looked at."

Assistant Referee Collapses in Copa América Match

The Kansas City Star reported that Tuesday's heat index was about 100 degrees when the match began at around 5 p.m. TSN reported that Panjoj suffered from dehydration.

Despite the difficult playing conditions, Jonathan David scored in the 74th minute to help Canada defeat Peru for its first victory over a South American opponent in 24 years.

The incident has raised concerns about the health and safety of officials during matches played in extreme heat.

FIFA, the governing body of world football, has protocols in place to protect players and officials from heat-related illnesses. These protocols include providing water breaks, allowing players to cool down in shaded areas, and stopping matches if the heat index reaches a certain level.

However, it is unclear whether these protocols were followed during Tuesday's match.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.