Lightning tragedy shakes Thai football as winger dies in semifinal

Winger Safwan Awae, 24, died after a lightning strike hit the field during the Golok FA Cup 2026 match at Santipap stadium in Su‑ngai Kolok, Tailandia. The incident occurred in stoppage time of a semifinal and shocked the global football community.

The strike hit players, referees and spectators alike, causing an immediate collapse of several participants on the pitch. Strong electrical storms surprised everyone present, and the thunderstorm intensified as the match entered added minutes.

Images of the moment spread quickly on social media and were reproduced by international media outlets, highlighting the magnitude of the event. The footage showed multiple athletes being knocked down by the bolt.

Local authorities reported that nine footballers sustained injuries and were taken to various medical centres. Among the injured was Malaysian midfielder Mohamad Alif Ezzahan Bin Zulkifit, who later returned to Malaysia for further treatment.

Awae had recently joined Yala FC after a season with Pattani FC, where he scored seven goals in 18 matches. Teammates and medical staff provided immediate assistance, but he was declared dead shortly after being admitted to hospital.

Police confirmed the accident happened in overtime of a semifinal, under heavy rain and strong wind, conditions that proved decisive for the fatal outcome. The match was halted only after the lightning strike.

The Thai Football Federation (FAT) publicly expressed condolences to Awae’s family, his club and teammates. Yala FC also posted a farewell message, describing the loss as a deep sorrow for the club.

The tragedy has reignited debate over safety at outdoor sporting events during adverse weather. Specialists urged that matches be stopped immediately when thunderstorms appear and recommended installing lightning rods in stadiums.

Similar fatal incidents have been recorded in the region over recent years, with footballers struck by lightning in both official and amateur games. The succession of such events keeps sports authorities on alert.

Awae signed his contract with Yala FC on 29 July, shortly before the fatal match. His promising career, highlighted by his contribution to Pattani FC’s promotion, was abruptly ended by the accident, prompting calls for stronger preventive measures.

Spanish coverage of the incident used terms such as EL, LA, EN, La and SOBRE when describing the Fútbol tragedy, underscoring the widespread media attention the event received.