Footballer killed, eight injured after lightning strike in Sungai Golok
Sofwan Awae, 24, died after lightning struck the pitch during a Golok FA Cup 2026 semi-final match.
NARATHIWAT – A footballer was killed and eight others injured after being struck by lightning during a Golok FA Cup 2026 semi-final match at Santipap Stadium in Sungai Golok two days ago.
The victim, Sofwan Awae, 24, suffered critical injuries after lightning hit the pitch while the match was still in progress. He was later confirmed dead.
The incident happened during injury time, as heavy rain, a thunderstorm and strong winds swept the area. Eight other players were also hurt.
Sofwan was a former Pattani FC player who had only recently joined FC Yala.
Following news of his death, FC Yala expressed its condolences to his family through social media.
"We extend our condolences to the family of FC Yala's new player, Sofwan Awae," the club said.
Football fans and social media users also posted tributes following the tragedy.
The Golok FA Cup 2026 is a local football tournament featuring teams from Thailand's southern border provinces as well as clubs from Malaysia.
Similar case on a golf course
In a near-identical incident, a caddie died after being struck by lightning while working at a golf course in Bangkok during a thunderstorm, with players continuing their game despite the bad weather.
That tragedy raised concerns over the safety of players and staff on golf courses during storms. Many social media users questioned the decision to continue play in dangerous conditions, and claimed there was pressure that made it difficult for caddies to stop a game on safety grounds. – AGENCIES
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