Thai striker dies after being struck by lightning while playing.

Sofwan Awae died from a lightning strike six days after joining Yala FC, turning his new journey into a tragedy that deeply shook Thai football.

Just six days after signing a contract with Yala FC, Sofwan Awae could never embark on his new journey. The 24-year-old player passed away on the evening of August 4 after being struck by lightning during the Golok FA Cup 2026 semi-final at Santiphap Stadium, Su-ngai Kolok district, Narathiwat province.

This was not an official match of Yala FC. Sofwan played for the team Abu x Nong Sirin against Sam Colt in a local football tournament gathering teams from southern Thailand and Malaysia. At around 5:30 PM, when the match entered stoppage time amidst thunderstorms and strong winds, a lightning bolt struck the field, causing many players to collapse simultaneously.

Teammates immediately provided first aid before medical personnel took the affected individuals to Su-ngai Kolok Hospital. Sofwan suffered the most severe injuries and did not survive despite emergency treatment. According to local police and Thai media, about 11 other players were injured; eight were kept for treatment in Thailand, one Malaysian player returned to his country for treatment, and two others continued to be examined.

Yala FC later confirmed the sad news with a message: "We belong to Allah and to Him we shall return. We extend our deepest condolences to the family of Sofwan Awae, the new player of FC Yala." The Football Association of Thailand also sent condolences to the family, friends, and the club.

The pain is even greater because Sofwan had just been announced by Yala FC on July 29. Previously, he played outstandingly for Pattani FC, scoring seven goals in 18 matches and helping the team win promotion to Thai League 1 for the first time in history. Yala FC, which plays in Thai League 3, recruited him to prepare for the new season. However, the hopeful contract closed after just six days.

The tragedy in Narathiwat not only plunged Thai football into mourning but also raised serious questions about safety when playing in thunderstorms. The match continued into stoppage time under dangerous weather conditions before disaster struck.

As farewell messages for Sofwan continue to appear, Thai football is waiting to see if this loss will lead to a stricter match-stopping procedure, instead of letting players continue to face uncontrollable natural hazards.