Ghanaian striker Raphael Dwamena has tragically passed away at the age of 28 after collapsing on the field during a league match in Albania.
Dwamena, who was playing for Egnatia against Partizani on Saturday, collapsed despite immediate intervention by specialist doctors, as reported by the Albanian Football Federation (AFL).
The striker had been a standout performer in the Albanian league, leading the goal-scoring charts with nine goals in the current season. Dwamena, who earned nine caps for his country and scored two goals, was a prominent figure in Ghanaian football.
In response to the unfortunate incident, the AFL decided to abandon Saturday’s match, and all scheduled games in Albania this week have been postponed.
Expressing condolences, the AFL conveyed its deepest sympathies to Dwamena’s family and the Egnatia club, acknowledging the profound impact this loss has had on the entire Albanian football community.
The Ghana Football Association (GFA) also extended heartfelt condolences to Dwamena’s family, recognizing his exemplary service to the country. GFA President Kurt Edwin Simeon Okraku emphasized Dwamena’s contributions and class whenever he represented Ghana.
Dwamena’s football journey included a proposed £14m move to Brighton in 2017, which fell through due to a failed medical.
He later played for Levante in La Liga and had a loan spell with Real Zaragoza. Despite facing health challenges, including collapsing during a cup match in Austria in 2021, Dwamena recovered and continued his playing career.
Levante, where Dwamena made a lasting impact, expressed condolences, stating that his legacy in the club will endure. Real Zaragoza also paid tribute, expressing devastation over the loss and ensuring that Dwamena will always be remembered by their fans.
