Tragedy struck Nigerian double champions Dolphin FC on Thursday as a newly-recruited player, Emmanuel Ayodeji, collapsed and died.

According to club spokesman China Acheru, Ayodeji complained of illness soon after helping the Port Harcourt side to a two-nil victory over visiting Insurance on Wednesday.

"He was taken to a nearby clinic for medical attention, only for us to be informed this morning that he had passed away," Acheru told reporters. "It is a sad day for all of us here at the club."

According to Acheru, the club is in the process of contacting the family of the late player before taking any further action.

Ayodeji joined Dolphin FC early this season from Lagos side NPA.