Ghana FA Mourns Raphael Dwamena on What Would Have Been His 28th Birthday
- The football world was left in shock when Raphael Dwamena collapsed mid-match in Albania, never to rise again
- From scoring twice on his Black Stars debut to netting 89 career goals, Dwamena’s promise was as bright as it was brief
- His final flourish came at KF Egnatia, where he struck 20 goals in 28 games before tragedy cruelly ended his journey
The Ghana Football Association (GFA) and the Black Stars have solemnly remembered the late striker Raphael Dwamena on his birthday, September 12, 2025.
Dwamena, who sadly died in November 2023, would have celebrated his 28th birthday today.
Source: Getty Images
On social media, the GFA posted an emotional tribute that read:
“Forever in our hearts. Continue to rest well, Raphael.”
Raphael Dwamena's passing
Dwamena’s passing shocked the football world. During an Albanian Superiore League fixture between KF Egnatia and Partizani on 11 November 2023, the forward collapsed suddenly in the first half.
The scene sparked immediate concern from players, medical staff, and supporters inside the ground.
According to BBC reports, the Ghanaian striker was given swift medical attention on the pitch and rushed to the hospital. Sadly, despite best efforts, he could not be revived.
The Albanian Football Federation later confirmed the devastating news, extending condolences to his family and the wider footballing community.
Dwamena’s International Career with Ghana
Born in Ghana, Raphael Dwamena’s footballing talent was evident from a young age. His rise culminated in representing the Black Stars, where he earned nine international caps between 2017 and 2018.
He made a dream start in national colours by scoring twice on his debut, quickly establishing himself as a forward full of energy and promise.
Though his international career was brief, it showed glimpses of the striker he could have become at the highest level.
Source: Getty Images
How many goals did Raphael Dwamena score?
According to Wikipedia, Raphael Dwamena scored 89 club career goals in 185 appearances in a career that spanned 11 years.
He made a remarkable impact during his brief stint with SC Austria Lustenau, scoring an impressive 18 goals in just 20 matches.
Dwamena’s breakthrough came in Austria’s second tier during the 2016–17 season, where his prolific form quickly drew the gaze of bigger European clubs. His performances earned him a move to Swiss outfit FC Zürich, where he wasted no time making his mark.
At Zürich, the Ghanaian forward became a reliable source of goals, scoring 21 times in 51 appearances across the 2017–18 campaign.
With his blistering pace, physical presence, and clinical finishing, Dwamena cemented his place as a fan favourite and an indispensable figure in the team.
His contributions proved decisive, helping Zürich secure the 2016/17 Swiss League title and lift the 2017/18 Swiss Cup, achievements that underlined his status as one of the brightest attacking talents in Swiss football.
In what turned out to be the final chapter of his career, the late Black Stars striker carried his lethal touch to Albania, where he joined KF Egnatia.
There, he maintained his sharp eye for goal, netting 20 times in 28 appearances before his life was tragically cut short on 11 November 2023.
Speaking in an interview with YEN.com.gh, Ghanaian football administrator Yamoah Kwaku reflected on Dwamena’s untimely passing:
“Raphael was not just a talented striker; he embodied the spirit of resilience and hope for many young footballers in Ghana. His sudden demise is a painful reminder of how fragile life is, but his legacy will continue to inspire generations. The entire football fraternity still feels his absence deeply.”
GFA remembered Dwamena's passing
YEN.com.gh previously highlighted the Ghana Football Association’s tribute marking the anniversary of the late striker’s passing in November last year.
Once tipped as a potential successor to Asamoah Gyan for the Black Stars, his life was cut short unexpectedly.
Source: YEN.com.gh
