Ahmed Refaat: How Mohamed Salah's former team-mate met an untimely end

Football world mourns Ahmed Refaat who played against Kenya in 2015 All Africa Games qualifiers in Nairobi.

Egyptian footballer Ahmed Refaat died on Saturday at the age of 31 leaving fans and the football community in shock.

Refaat who played for Modern Sport Club suffered a health crisis during a league match against Ittihad of Alexandria on 11 March.

During the match, Refaat experienced cardiac arrest and received medical attention on the field.

Despite the efforts, he lost consciousness and remained in a coma for several days.

Initially hospitalized in Alexandria, Refaat was transferred to Cairo for further treatment on 25 March.

After weeks of intensive care, he was discharged on 11 April but continued to receive treatment and relied on a pacemaker.

His final public appearance was on MBC Masr 2 on 23 June, where he appeared optimistic about his recovery.

However, the cause of his death remains undisclosed, although it is believed to be related to the heart complications he suffered earlier this year.

Refaat's football journey saw him join Future FC from rivals Masry in October 2021, where he scored nine goals in 29 appearances last season.

His career also included stints with Zamalek and Enppi. He made his debut with Egypt’s senior national football team in 2021, earning five caps with the Pharaohs.

Notably, he played against Kenya in the 2015 All-Africa Games qualifiers showcasing his talent on an international level.

The Egyptian Football Association expressed their condolences with directors and staff sending a message to the public.

"We mourn Ahmed Refaat, the player of the national team and Modern Sport Club, praying to God Almighty to have mercy on him and inspire his family and relatives with patience and solace. To God we belong and to Him we shall return," the message reads.

Refaat's untimely death has left a void in the hearts of many, including his fellow players and fans.

Egyptian football star Mohamed Salah shared an emotional tribute on social media, posting an image of his former team-mate with the caption; "May God grant patience to his family and all his loved ones."

Refaat's career began with Zamalek where he displayed promising talent earning him a move to Enppi.

His performances caught the eye of many, leading to his subsequent transfer to Masry and later to Future FC.

Refaat's health crisis during the match against Ittihad of Alexandria was a devastating moment for everyone involved.

His team and the medical staff acted swiftly, but the severity of his condition meant he faced a tough battle.

The football community rallied around him with fans and players alike hoping for his recovery.

Despite being discharged from the hospital in April, Refaat's health continued to be fragile as his use of a pacemaker indicated ongoing complications.

His legacy will live on in the memories of those who watched him play and those who were fortunate enough to know him personally.