Australian goalkeeper dies after being struck by lightning

A promising young Australian goalkeeper has died in hospital after he was struck by lightning during a training session in Malaysia last month. 

Stefan Petrovski, 18, had been in intensive care following the freak accident in Malacca on April 5.

The Melaka United player was one of two players admitted to hospital when a lightning bolt struck the goal posts he was standing close to.

While his teammate, 21-year-old defender Muhd Afiq Azuan, regained consciousness and was stabilised, Petrovski’s condition deteriorated.

The Sydney teenager had showed signs of recovery but scans revealed cerebral hypoxia ischemia, caused by a lack of oxygen to the brain.

A spokesperson from Putra Specialist Hospital said Petrovski died on Sunday at 4.40pm.

Petrovski had only recently moved abroad and signed a three-year-deal with Melaka United after gaining his Malaysian passport.

He was yet to make his league debut for the club. He previously played with NSW Premier League club Sydney Olympic.

The Football Federation of Australia said it was saddened to hear of Petrovski`s death.

‘On behalf of the Australian football community, FFA sends their deepest condolences to the Petrovski family, friends and teammates,’ a statement read.