Gabonese international and former Hatayspor striker Aaron Boupendza has tragically passed away at the age of 28 after falling from the 11th floor of his residence in China. The Gabonese Football Federation confirmed his death on Wednesday, stating: “The Gabonese international has just passed away following a fall from the 11th floor of his building in China where he played for Zhejiang FC. At 28, Boupendza is remembered as a great striker who made his mark during the AFCON in Cameroon.”
At the time of his death, Boupendza was playing for Chinese Super League club Zhejiang FC. In a heartfelt Instagram post honoring the player, the club said he died at his residence. An investigation is currently ongoing, and Zhejiang FC has stated it is fully cooperating with the authorities.
Boupendza also represented Gabon in 35 international matches, scoring eight goals. One of those goals came during the 2016 African Nations Championship, a moment that highlighted his impact on the international stage.
His passing has left the football world in mourning, especially among his national teammates. Gabon captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang shared his grief on Instagram, posting a photo of the two embracing with the caption, “I have no words, rest in peace my brother.”
Boupendza began his professional career with CF Mounana in Gabon before earning a move to Bordeaux in France in 2016. Over the years, he went on to play for a number of clubs including Hatayspor (Turkey), Al-Arabi (Qatar), Al-Shabab FC (Saudi Arabia), FC Cincinnati (USA), and Rapid București (Romania). Across all his club appearances, he played 190 matches and scored 89 goals.
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