Palmeiras striker Alemao dies in car accident

Palmeiras striker Alemao was killed in a car crash early Sunday.

Photo: Palmeiras striker Alemao dies in car accident

The 23-year-old player was in an accident while driving his Toyota Hilux in the city of Nova Iguacu, about 50 kilometers (30 miles) northeast of Rio de Janeiro, Palmeiras said in a statement.

Alemao's brother-in-law also was killed in the crash, Palmeiras said.

Authorities did not immediately disclose details of the accident, but local media said Alemao's car rolled over in a tight curve. Witnesses told local media it did not appear Alemao was speeding.

Alemao, whose full name was Carlos Adriano de Jesus Soares, had been with the four-time Brazilian champion since January, but played only three matches before sustaining a serious knee injury that would have kept him sidelined until the end of the year.

Alemao played for Japanese clubs Kyoto Purple Sanga and Yokohama FC last year.

The striker began his career with Coritiba, and moved to Japan after the 2004 season.