SU-NGAI KOLOK, NARATHIWAT, THAILAND – AUGUST 4, 2026 Tragic accident occurred during a soccer tournament in southern Thailand, in which 24-year-old soccer player Sofwan Awae died. The player was struck by lightning during a match of the Golok FA Cup at Santiphap Stadium.
The incident occurred in the afternoon during the semifinal match of the regional tournament between the teams SAMCOLT and Abu x Nong Sirin. According to police, the match had already ended when heavy rain and a thunderstorm hit the area. Lightning struck the field area where players and other people were present.
The lightning strike hit Sofwan Awae, causing serious injuries. Although he received immediate assistance and was transported to a hospital, doctors were unable to save him. Police later confirmed his death as a result of injuries caused by the lightning strike.
Twelve other people were injured in the accident. Among those injured was also 22-year-old Malaysian soccer player Mohammad Alif Ezzahan Zulkifli, who played for SAMCOLT, a team made up of Thai and Malaysian players. The injured individuals were later taken to a hospital in Su-ngai Kolok for treatment.
Sofwan Awae played as a soccer striker and winger. According to available information, he had signed a contract shortly before the tragedy with semi-professional club FC Yala, which competes in Thailand’s third division. After his death, the club released a condolence message to the player’s family.
The tragedy highlighted the dangers of playing outdoor sports during severe thunderstorms. Southern Thailand frequently experiences intense storms and lightning strikes during the rainy season, which can pose a serious risk, especially in open areas such as soccer fields.
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