The global football community is mourning the sudden and tragic death of Aaron Boupendza, the 28-year-old striker who most recently played for Zhejiang FC in China.
The Gabonese Football Federation (FEGAFOOT) confirmed on Wednesday that Boupendza died after falling from the 11th floor of his apartment building.
“The Gabonese international died following a fall from the 11th floor of his building in China where he was playing for Zhejiang FC,” the federation announced in an official statement. “Aged 28, Boupendza leaves us with the memory of a great striker who left his mark on the Africa Cup of Nations in Cameroon.”
Boupendza’s career marked by promise and success
Boupendza’s professional career began in 2015 with CF Mounana in Gabon. He later joined French club Bordeaux, where he developed with their reserve team before making a move to Hatayspor in Turkey.
His breakout season came in 2020, when he scored 22 goals in 36 matches, establishing himself as one of the top forwards in the Turkish Süper Lig.
In 2023, Boupendza signed with FC Cincinnati, marking his first stint in Major League Soccer (MLS). He contributed to the club’s attacking line before parting ways in August 2024. Shortly after, he signed with Rapid Bucureti in Romania’s Liga I, and later made the move to China with Zhejiang FC.
In just six appearances with Zhejiang FC, Boupendza had already made a significant impact-scoring four goals and registering two assists, signaling what appeared to be a resurgence in form.
FC Cincinnati, Gabonese federation express condolences
Former club FC Cincinnati released a heartfelt message following the news of Boupendza‘s death:
“We are saddened to hear of the tragic passing of former FC Cincinnati forward Aaron Boupendza earlier today at his home in China. Our hearts go out to his family, friends, and teammates. He was a loved member of the FC Cincinnati family, and we offer our condolences to all who knew him.”
At this time, no further information regarding the exact circumstances of Boupendza‘s death has been released.
Chinese authorities have not yet issued an official report, and investigations may still be ongoing.
Boupendza represented Gabon internationally, including during the Africa Cup of Nations, where he gained a reputation for his clinical finishing and attacking flair.
He is remembered not only for his talent on the pitch but also for the promise he brought to every team he joined.
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