Soccer Star’s Tragic Fall: Gone Too Soon! 💔

The soccer community is mourning the loss of a player who was beloved worldwide. 

Aaron Boupendza, who recently joined Zhejiang FC and previously played for FC Cincinnati in the Major League Soccer, tragically passed away following a fall from an 11th floor balcony of a building in China. This information was confirmed by the Gabonese Football Federation (FEGAFOOT) to Reuters on April 16. At the time of his death, he was 28 years old.

As an ardent admirer of Gabonese soccer, I’m deeply saddened to express my heartfelt condolences to the family of the remarkable Boupendza. In these challenging times, his memory will be cherished and celebrated. At just 28, he left an indelible mark on the African Cup of Nations in Cameroon [in 2022], shining as a prolific striker.

From Gabon, Boupendza found himself ranked 13th among forwards in the Zhejiang league, an impressive feat achieved mere months after his contract termination with FC Cincinnati in August. Despite being released from FC Cincinnati prematurely due to a week-long absence from practice, the club later expressed their sympathies following the unfortunate passing of their former player, as reported by The Athletic.

It’s deeply unfortunate to learn that Aaron Boupendza, a beloved former FC Cincinnati forward, passed away today at his home in China. Our thoughts are with his loved ones, friends, and teammates during this difficult time. He was cherished within the FC Cincinnati family, and we extend our sympathies to everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

At age 28, Boupendza participated in just 24 league games with Cincinnati. However, prior to departing the team, he had netted seven goals and provided two assists according to Major League Soccer records. Since turning professional in 2017, Boupendza has represented eight different clubs worldwide, including stints in France, Portugal, and Saudi Arabia, as reported by The Athletic.

Upon learning about Boupendza’s passing, the newly elected president of Gabon, Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, too offered words of sympathy. He referred to Boupendza as a gifted center forward whose skills enhanced the pride of Gabonese soccer.

In his statement on the 16th of April, Nguema expressed heartfelt sympathies, saying, “I deeply mourn for his family and those close to him. My prayers are with him.

We’ve attempted to contact a representative from Boupendza about his passing, but haven’t received a response yet. The authorities have not disclosed the specific reason behind the footballer’s demise at this point.

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2025-04-16 19:47