Ghanaian forward Raphael Dwamena has reportedly suffered a tragic collapse and passed away while playing in a league game in Albania.
The 28-year-old started the match between FK Egnatia and Partizani on Saturday but had to be carried off on a stretcher after collapsing. Despite the efforts of doctors, the former Red Bull Salzburg player could not be revived.
His untimely demise has been confirmed by several of his previous clubs, including FC Zurich, who expressed their grief on X (formerly Twitter).
“FC Zurich mourns Raphael Dwamena. Rest in Peace Raphael Dwamena. You will always be one of us!” the club wrote.
The Ghana Football Association (GFA) also said in a statement: “Our thoughts are with the family of Raphael Dwamena at this difficult time. Raphael represented Ghana wholeheartedly and paid his dues to the country until his unfortunate passing. We will forever miss him for his dedication to the National Coarse. Rest In Peace Raphael!”
Although the details concerning the footballer’s death remain scanty at the moment, Dwamena had been battling a health condition for many years.
His most recent setback came in 2021, when he collapsed while playing in a cup game for the Austrian club BW Linz.
Dwamena, who was born in Nkawkaw, had the opportunity to play and train with the Red Bull Ghana developmental program.
During the International Tournament in Croix, France, in 2013, he showcased his skills and contributed to the RB Ghana U17 team’s success, earning them a silver medal. Dwamena’s outstanding performance also led to him being recognized as the tournament’s Best Player.
Following the tournament, Dwamena and his teammate, David Atanga, embarked on a journey to Austria for a one-week trial with FC Red Bull Salzburg before returning to Ghana.
In January 2014, Dwamena officially became a part of the Salzburg youth team and wasted no time in making an impact. During a tournament in June, he displayed his goal-scoring prowess by netting seven goals in just four games. Despite Salzburg finishing in third place, Dwamena’s exceptional performance earned him the prestigious Golden Shoe award.
