A regional football game in southern Thailand turned tragic on Tuesday, August 4, when lightning struck the field, claiming the life of 24-year-old Sofwan Awae. The incident took place in Sungai Golok, Narathiwat province, and left 12 other players injured.
Local authorities reported that the incident happened around 5:30 PM local time during the semi-finals of the Golok FA Cup at Santiphap Stadium. Despite the stormy weather, the match continued until lightning hit the pitch.
Medical responders got to Awae quickly, attempting to resuscitate him before rushing him to a nearby hospital. Unfortunately, doctors later announced that he had passed away due to the serious injuries he sustained.
“Despite the efforts of the emergency team, the victim could not be saved due to the severity of his injuries,” said Col. Thun Sirikhunt, police chief in Sungai Golok.
Footage shared on social media captured the shocking moment, showing a bright flash followed by an explosive sound. Players fell to the ground amid the panic that spread through the stadium.
Players, officials, and fans immediately rushed to assist the injured as emergency services were called to the scene.
Awae, a winger, had just joined the Thai League 3 team Yala FC days before this heartbreaking event. The club expressed their condolences on Facebook, including a heartfelt verse from the Quran: “Indeed, we belong to Allah, and indeed, to Him we will return.”
The Football Association of Thailand also extended their sympathies to Awae’s family and to Yala FC.
