Tragedy on the Pitch: Thai Footballer, 24, Dies After Lightning Strike During Match Days After Signing Dream Contract

A 24-year-old Thai footballer has died after being struck by lightning during a regional cup match in southern Thailand, just days after making a major career move by signing with a professional club.

Safwan Awae, also known as Sofwan Awae in some reports, was killed on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, when lightning struck the pitch at Santiphap Stadium in Su-ngai Kolok, Narathiwat province, during a Golok FA Cup fixture.

The winger, who had recently joined Thai League 3 side Yala FC, was playing for his team during a match between SAMCOLTS and Abu x Nong Sirin when the incident occurred amid heavy rainfall and thunderstorms.

Witnesses said the lightning strike happened between 5:00 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. local time, sending players and spectators into panic as a bright flash and loud explosion were seen and heard across the stadium.

Footage circulating online showed several players collapsing immediately after the strike. Teammates and spectators quickly rushed to Awae’s side and attempted to provide first aid before emergency responders arrived.

He was later taken to Sungai Kolok Hospital for treatment, but medical personnel were unable to save him. Police authorities confirmed his death, while the match was abandoned following the shocking incident.

Reports said between nine and 12 other players were also injured in the lightning strike. Among those affected was 22-year-old Malaysian footballer Mohamad Alif Ezzahan Zulkifli, who was treated after sustaining injuries and later returned to Malaysia for further medical attention. Other injured players reportedly suffered burns and trauma linked to the strike.

Awae’s death came less than a week after he signed with Yala FC, a move regarded as a major breakthrough in his football career. He joined the club around July 29, 2026, after previously featuring for Pattani FC, where he played a key role in helping the team secure promotion.

Yala FC expressed deep sadness over the loss of the young player, describing him as a new addition to the team and extending condolences to his family.

“The board, coaching staff, players and everyone at the club extend their deepest sympathies to his family during this difficult period,” the club said.

The Football Association of Thailand also joined the growing tributes, expressing grief over the sudden death and offering support to Awae’s relatives, friends and football colleagues.

The Golok FA Cup is a regional football competition involving teams from Thailand’s southern border provinces and neighbouring Malaysian communities.

The tragedy has sparked widespread reactions online, with many expressing shock after videos of the lightning strike and its aftermath went viral. The incident has also renewed discussions about safety measures and whether matches should continue during severe weather conditions.

Awae’s death serves as a painful reminder of the dangers thunderstorms can pose at open sporting venues. The football community in Thailand continues to mourn the loss of a promising player whose professional journey was cut short just as his career was beginning to rise.