Gabon Striker Aaron Boupendza Is Dead

Gabon Striker Aaron Boupendza Is Dead

Gabonese international footballer Aaron Boupendza has tragically passed away at the age of 28 after falling from the 11th floor of a building in China, the Gabonese Football Federation (Fegafoot) confirmed on Wednesday.

Fegafoot said in a statement shared on social media page X (formerly Twitter), “The Gabonese international died following a fall from the 11th floor of his building in China where he was playing for Zhejiang FC.”

Known for his sharp instincts as a centre-forward, Boupendza enjoyed a remarkable career that spanned several countries and leagues.

He rose to prominence during the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Cameroon, playing a pivotal role as Gabon advanced to the round of 16 before being edged out by Burkina Faso.

“Aged 28, Boupendza leaves us with the memory of a great striker who left his mark on the CAN,” the federation said.

“Fegafoot and the entire Gabonese football family offer their sincere condolences to his biological family.”

President-elect Brice Oligui Nguema also expressed his sorrow over the loss, posting on X: “It is with immense sadness that I learn of the tragic death of Aaron Boupendza, a talented centre-forward who brought honour to Gabonese football.”

According to national broadcaster Gabon 24, the exact circumstances of the fall remain uncertain.

Authorities in China have launched an official investigation to determine what led to the incident.

A Look Back at His Career:

Born in Moanda, Gabon, Boupendza began his European journey in 2016 with French side Bordeaux, spending time on loan with several clubs in France. His breakthrough came in 2020 with Turkish outfit Hatayspor, where he emerged as the top scorer in the Super Lig for the 2020–21 season.

He went on to play for Al Arabi in Qatar—winning the Qatar FA Cup—before joining Al Shabab in Saudi Arabia. His journey continued with stints at FC Cincinnati in the United States and Rapid Bucharest in Romania.

Most recently, Boupendza had signed with Zhejiang FC in the Chinese Super League earlier this year.