(foto: Screenshot)
A football match in southern Thailand ended in tragedy after a lightning strike hit the pitch, killing one player and injuring 12 others during a severe thunderstorm.
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A regional football tournament in Thailand ended in tragedy after a bolt of lightning struck the pitch during a match, killing one player and injuring 12 others.
The shocking incident happened during the Golok Cup at Santiphap Stadium in Narathiwat province, where local and mixed amateur teams from Thailand and Malaysia were competing despite heavy monsoon conditions.
A match turned into a nightmare
Witnesses described a fierce thunderstorm as the game continued before a powerful lightning bolt suddenly hit the playing field.
The strike illuminated the stadium with a blinding flash before flames and smoke erupted from the point of impact.
Players and spectators immediately ran for safety, while teammates rushed to help Safwan Awae, who had taken the full force of the strike.
The 24-year-old winger was given emergency treatment on the pitch before being transported to hospital in critical condition.
Player dies despite rescue efforts
Police chief Thun Sirikhunt later confirmed that Safwan died from his injuries.
"Although the emergency medical team made every effort to save him, the victim succumbed to severe injuries sustained in the incident," Sirikhunt said.
The match was immediately abandoned following the tragedy.
Twelve other players suffered burns and other injuries in the lightning strike, including 22-year-old Malaysian footballer Alif Ezzahan Zulkifli.
Dream move ended in tragedy
Safwan had recently fulfilled a lifelong ambition by signing for FC Yala, a semi-professional club competing in Thailand's League 3 Southern Region.
The club paid tribute to its player in an emotional statement.
"Indeed, we belong to Allah, and indeed, to Him we will return. Condolences to the family of Safwan Awae, the new player of FC Yala."
Storm season continues across Southeast Asia
The tragedy occurred during Southeast Asia's annual rainy season, which typically lasts from May through October. The period regularly brings severe thunderstorms, lightning and flash flooding across the region.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by extreme weather and the importance of suspending sporting events when lightning is present.