The African footballing world is draped in grief following the untimely demise of Egyptian forward Ahmed Refaat. Refaat, a beacon of talent for نادي المستقبل (Nadi Mostaqbal – Modern Future FC), passed away on July 6th, 2024, at the age of 31, after a valiant fight against a cardiac arrest suffered just a few months prior.
News of Refaat’s passing sent shockwaves through the continent. The Confédération Africaine de Football (CAF) expressed its profound sadness in a heartfelt statement. CAF President, Dr. Patrice Motsepe, extended his deepest condolences to Refaat’s family, the Egyptian Football Association (EFA), and the entire Egyptian football fraternity.
Refaat’s story is one of immense courage and determination. In March 2024, while playing for Modern Future in a crucial Egyptian Premier League match, tragedy struck. Refaat collapsed on the pitch in the 88th minute, victim to a sudden cardiac arrest. The incident sent shivers down the spines of fans and players alike. Rushed to the hospital, Refaat battled for his life in the intensive care unit for a grueling month.
While hope flickered with Refaat’s eventual discharge and pacemaker implantation, the recent turn of events has left everyone heartbroken. Tributes have poured in from across the footballing landscape. Egyptian national teammate and Liverpool star Mohamed Salah took to social media, expressing his sorrow and offering prayers for Refaat’s family.
Refaat, a gifted striker, had already carved a niche for himself in Egyptian football. Having donned the national team jersey seven times, his talent promised much more. His absence leaves not only a gaping hole in the Modern Future lineup, but also a void in the hearts of his fans and fellow players.
