A Thai footballer lost his life, while 12 other players, including a Malaysian, were injured after lightning struck a football field during a match in Sungai Golok, Narathiwat province, southern Thailand, on Tuesday (4 August).
According to Sungai Golok police chief Thun Sirikhunt, the incident occurred at around 5:30 PM local time as heavy rain lashed the area during the semi-final of the regional Golok FA Cup at Santiphap Stadium.
Injured Malaysian player is a footballer from Kelantan FC
The match was contested between Abu x Nong Sirin and SAMCOLT, a mixed squad comprising both Thai and Malaysian players. The tournament also featured several Malaysian clubs, including Kelantan FC.
The injured Malaysian was identified as Mohammad Alif Ezzahan Zulkifli, who was playing for SAMCOLT.
Tributes pour in for deceased winger
The deceased was identified as 24-year-old Sofwan Awae, a winger for Thai third-tier semi-professional side Yala FC. He was reportedly representing Abu x Nong Sirin in the tournament, although reports have differed on which team he was playing for. Sofwan had previously played for Pattani FC and had joined Yala FC just days before the tragic incident.
The official page of Yala FC posted a heartfelt message later that day, expressing deep condolences to Sofwan’s family. The Football Association of Thailand (FAT) also issued a formal statement regarding the tragedy.
“The Federation shares the grief with the family, friends, and the club during this difficult time,” the statement read.
Emergency response and ongoing investigation
Police said they received an emergency call shortly after the lightning strike and rushed to the stadium, where Sofwan was found critically injured. Despite efforts by emergency medical personnel to revive him, he succumbed to his injuries.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the incident, while the condition of the 12 injured players has not yet been fully disclosed.
Stay tuned to WORLD OF BUZZ for the latest updates.
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