Thai Footballer Killed After Lightning Strikes During Match

A football match in southern Thailand ended in tragedy after a lightning strike killed a player and injured several others during a regional tournament.

The incident happened on Tuesday, August 4, at Santiphap Stadium in Su-ngai Kolok, Narathiwat Province, during a Golok FA Cup semi-final.

Lightning Strikes During Heavy Rain

Reports say players continued competing despite heavy rain and a developing thunderstorm.

During the match, lightning struck the pitch, knocking several players and officials to the ground.

Safwan Awae, a 24-year-old player for Yala FC, suffered critical injuries and later died after being rushed to a nearby hospital.

Officials also reported that 12 other people sustained injuries, including a Malaysian player.

Football Community Mourns

Yala FC and the Football Association of Thailand paid tribute to Awae following the tragedy.

According to reports, the winger had recently signed a new contract with the club before the fatal incident.

His death has sent shockwaves through Thailand’s football community.

Weather Safety Under Spotlight

The tragedy has renewed calls for stricter weather safety protocols during outdoor sporting events.

Safety experts continue to stress that matches should stop immediately when thunder or lightning is detected, as strikes can occur before severe rainfall begins.

Lightning-related incidents on football pitches remain rare but have caused fatalities in the past.

Video coverage of this incident is available on the BuzzinOnlineNews Instagram page (@buzzinonlinenews).