Colombian youth striker Eder Smic Valencia dies in car crash days before reported MLS move
16-year-old Eder Smic Valencia killed in collision near Cali as authorities open investigation; club confirmed death and said it will support family
Eder Smic Valencia, a 16-year-old striker widely regarded as one of Colombia's promising young footballers, died Sunday in a road accident in Guachené, near Cali, authorities and his club said. The death occurred days before he was reportedly due to travel to the United States to complete a move to Major League Soccer side New York Red Bulls.
Local reports said the vehicle in which Valencia was travelling collided with a tanker truck while he was on holiday. Authorities have opened an investigation into the circumstances of the crash, and police in the Cauca department are handling inquiries into the incident.
Valencia's club, Academia Alemana Popayán (AAFP), confirmed his death in a statement, saying: "It is with deep sorrow that we report the passing of our player Eder Smic Valencia Ambuila in a car accident while on vacation in Guachené. We are supporting his family and we will honour his memory here at AAFP. He will forever be in our hearts." The club, based in Popayán, has a reputation for developing players who progress to the professional ranks.
Reports said Valencia had impressed at the Under-16 Bulls Cup in February and had been monitored by scouts and coaches both in Colombia and overseas. He was expected to represent Colombia's Under-17 national team at the 2026 South American Championship, and several outlets reported he was due to fly to the United States this week to finalise a move to the New York Red Bulls.
Valencia's death prompted immediate expressions of grief from teammates, coaches and local football officials, who described the outcome as a tragedy for his family and the football community. AAFP said it would provide support to the player's relatives and honour his memory at the club.
The circumstances surrounding the collision remain under investigation. Colombian authorities have not released further details about the crash or any potential contributing factors. No comment was available from Major League Soccer or the New York Red Bulls at the time of publication.
Valencia's passing underscores the often fragile trajectory of young football prospects who draw attention from international clubs. He had been among a cohort of teenagers whose performances at regional tournaments attracted scouting interest, a pathway that increasingly links Colombian youth academies with clubs in North America and Europe.
The club and local officials have asked for privacy for the family as they make arrangements, and have not released details about funeral arrangements. The investigation by local authorities into the road collision is ongoing.