A local football match in southern Thailand turned into a heartbreaking tragedy after a 24-year-old player was killed when a lightning bolt struck the pitch, leaving 12 others injured.
The victim, Sofwan Awae, was playing in a Golok FA Cup clash between SAMCOLTS and Abu x Nong Sirin at Santiphap Stadium in Sungai Golok on August 4 when the terrifying incident occurred.
According to reports, a powerful lightning strike hit the field during the match, critically injuring Awae. His teammates immediately rushed to his aid, turning him onto his back and performing CPR while emergency responders fought to save his life. Despite their efforts, he later died from his injuries.
Videos circulating on social media captured the frightening moment the lightning flashed across the stadium, followed by a deafening explosion that sent players collapsing to the ground in panic.
Police said 12 other players, including a Malaysian national, were also injured in the incident and taken to hospital for treatment.
Awae, who played as a winger for SAMCOLTS, had recently signed with Thai third-tier side Yala FC. Mourning his passing, the club paid tribute in a heartfelt statement, saying:
“We extend our deepest condolences to the family of our new FC Yala player, Sofwan Awae. May he rest in peace.”
The shocking incident has left the football community in mourning and serves as a painful reminder of the dangers posed by extreme weather during outdoor sporting events.
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