Diogo Jota, André Silva, 7 Other Footballers Who Have Died in 2025

The football world is no stranger to heartbreak, but 2025 has brought more than its fair share of tragedy. In just half a year, the game has lost several active and former players talented men still in their prime, or legends whose presence was still deeply felt in the sport. 

The most shocking of all is the death of Portuguese forward Diogo Jota and his younger brother André Silva, which sent shockwaves through the global football community. Here are the footballers who have died in 2025 so far.

Diogo Jota

Liverpool’s Diogo Jota is undoubtedly the most high-profile footballer to pass away in 2025. Just 11 days after his wedding to longtime partner Rute Cardoso, the 28-year-old died in a car crash in Spain. 

He and his brother were reportedly on their way to catch a ferry to England, after doctors advised him not to fly due to recent lung surgery. The crash occurred in the Zamora region when their Lamborghini lost control and caught fire. 

The news devastated fans, with many gathering at Anfield to pay tribute to the player who had scored countless memorable goals in a Liverpool shirt.

André Silva

André Silva, Jota’s younger brother and closest friend, also died in the same crash. Aged 25, he was a rising talent playing for Penafiel in Portugal’s second division. 

The two were the only children of their parents, making the tragedy even more painful. Friends, teammates, and fans poured out tributes for the brothers, who had grown up chasing the same football dream.

Peter Rufai

Although not an active player, the death of Nigerian football legend Peter Rufai popularly known as “Dodo Mayana” was a huge blow to African football in 2025. 

A trailblazer for Nigerian goalkeepers, Rufai had a career that spanned over two decades, including memorable appearances at the 1994 and 1998 FIFA World Cups. Known for his leadership on and off the pitch, he was a national hero and a role model for younger generations. His death left the Nigerian football community in mourning, with tributes pouring in from past teammates, fans, and former clubs.

Muhannad Fadl al-Lay

Palestinian footballer Muhannad Fadl al-Lay lost his life after suffering injuries from a missile strike at his home during the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. He died a few days later. His death highlights how even off the pitch, some players face dangers that most can’t imagine.

Aaron Boupendza

Gabonese forward Aaron Boupendza passed away in April after falling from the 11th floor of a building in China, where he was playing for Zhejiang FC. The former Turkish league top scorer had previously represented Gabon at the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations. His death is still under investigation, but it left fans in Gabon and abroad in mourning.

Sinamandla Zondi

In South Africa, 20-year-old Sinamandla Zondi collapsed during the warm-up of a second-division match between Durban City and Milford FC. He was rushed to the hospital but was pronounced dead shortly after. The match was suspended as players and fans struggled to come to terms with the loss.

Abubakar Lawal

Nigerian footballer Abubakar Lawal was playing for Vipers FC in Uganda when tragedy struck. Initial reports claimed he was involved in a motorcycle accident, but later updates revealed he died after falling from the top of a shopping mall. The circumstances surrounding his death remain unclear, and Nigerian authorities have called for a full investigation.