Thai footballer dies on the pitch in southern Thailand after being struck by lightning

Footballer Sofwan Awae, 24, tragically died on the pitch in southern Thailand after being struck by lightning during a Golok Cup match on August 4. The incident occurred around 5:30 p.m. at Santiphap Stadium in Sungai Golok, while SAMCOLTS, the team Sofwan played for, was competing against Abu x Nong Sirin.

Sofwan, a recent signing for Thai third-tier professional side Yala FC, was playing as a winger when the lightning bolt hit the pitch. Images circulating online appear to show a bright light striking near the penalty area. Teammates were seen attempting to revive him on the field, but emergency medical teams were unable to save him due to the severity of his injuries.

The lightning strike also injured 12 other individuals, including one Malaysian footballer, who were subsequently transported to the hospital for treatment. Both Sofwan's club, Yala FC, and the Football Association of Thailand have issued messages of condolence to his family.

This incident highlights the dangers of playing sports during thunderstorms. In Singapore, Category 1 weather alerts mandate an immediate stop to outdoor activities. While Sofwan's death is a tragic event, it serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with lightning strikes, particularly in open areas like sports fields.

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Although the emergency medical team made every effort to save him, the victim succumbed to severe injuries sustained in the incident.