Thai Footballer Dies After Lightning Strike During Match in Southern Thailand

Bangkok: A football match in southern Thailand ended in tragedy after Thai footballer Sofwan Awae reportedly died following a lightning strike during a local tournament. The incident occurred during the Golok FA Cup, a competition featuring amateur Thai and Thai-Malaysian teams.

According to reports, the lightning strike also injured 12 other players. The incident was captured on video and has since circulated widely on social media.

Witnesses said Awae collapsed immediately after the lightning strike. Fellow players rushed to assist him before emergency responders arrived and began providing medical aid. Despite their efforts, he was later pronounced dead.

The incident prompted an outpouring of condolences on social media. Some users also questioned whether the match should have continued under adverse weather conditions, calling for stricter safety protocols during thunderstorms.

Following the tragedy, the Football Association of Thailand expressed its condolences to the player's family, teammates, and club.

"The association joins in mourning this loss and offers its condolences to the family, those involved, and the football club during this time of sorrow," the Football Association of Thailand said in its statement.

Authorities are expected to review the circumstances surrounding the incident. The tragedy has also renewed discussions about weather-related safety measures for outdoor sporting events.