A sudden monsoon thunderstorm rolled over Santiphap Stadium in Narathiwat province on August 4, 2026, forcing dozens of players to huddle under the rain before play was halted.
A Tragic Turn in Narathiwat
During the pause, a blinding bolt of lightning struck the field, igniting a flash of flame that seared the air and left a trail of fire near the center of the pitch.
Safwan Awae, a 24‑year‑old forward who had recently transferred to FC Yala from the Thai League 3 Southern Region, was among those caught in the strike; he was pronounced dead at the scene despite frantic efforts by teammates and medical staff.
Twelve other competitors, including 22‑year‑old Malaysian international Alif Ezzahan Zulkifli, suffered injuries ranging from minor cuts to severe burns, and were rushed to nearby hospitals for emergency treatment.
Emergency responders arrived within minutes, administering first aid before transporting the injured to the Narathiwat Provincial Hospital, where doctors confirmed the fatality and treated the survivors.
The club FC Yala took to its official Facebook page to mourn the loss, posting a somber tribute that read, “Indeed, we belong to Allah, and indeed, to Him we will return,” while extending condolences to Awae’s family.
The incident has reignited discussions about safety protocols for outdoor sports in Thailand’s rainy season, with officials promising a review of lightning‑risk management for regional tournaments.