Former Colombia star Freddy Rincon is in a critical condition in hospital after he was involved in a car accident.
Reports in Colombia said Rincon was driving a car in the city of Cali when it collided with a bus.
The 55-year-old was rushed to the Imbanaco Clinic who said Rincon had suffered "severe head injuries".
The hospital said in a statement: "With the authorisation of his family, we confirm that Freddy Eusebio Rincon Valencia was admitted to the clinic.
"After an initial valuation, the team of specialists in charge of the patient took the decision to carry out surgery which is ongoing."
Rincon scored 17 goals in 84 games for Colombia and played at three World Cups in 1990, 1994 and 1998.
He netted an injury-time equaliser against eventual winners West Germany in 1990 to clinch Colombia's place in the knockout stages.
"The Colombian Football Federation and its Executive Committee send all their strength and support to former player Freddy Rincon, who is going through a delicate moment of health after suffering an accident," the national association said on its official Twitter account.
"We wish you a speedy recovery and that with God's help you overcome this difficult situation."
An attacking midfielder, Rincon played for Napoli, Palmeiras and Corinthians and was at Real Madrid between 1995 and 1997. He won the FIFA Club World Cup with Corinthians in 2000.
Real sent their support to Rincon, tweeting: "From Real Madrid CF, all of our strength and affection for Freddy Rincon following the accident he was involved in today.
"We send our encouragement and we hope that he overcomes this difficult moment as soon as possible."
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