Footballer killed, nine injured in lightning strike during match in southern Thailand

A football match in southern Thailand turned tragic when lightning struck the pitch, killing one player and injuring nine others. The incident occurred on Wednesday at Santiphap Stadium in Narathiwat province during the Golok Cup tournament.

Players continued the match despite heavy monsoon rain. Videos circulating on social media captured the moment lightning hit the field, causing widespread panic among players and spectators. The deceased has been identified as 24-year-old Thai footballer Safwan Awae, who died after being rushed to the hospital.

Among the nine injured is a Malaysian player. Some sustained burns as a result of the strike. The match was immediately abandoned following the devastating event.

Thailand experiences frequent thunderstorms during its annual monsoon season. Authorities consistently advise organizers of outdoor sporting events to suspend activities whenever lightning is detected to avert similar tragedies.