Dare Babalola
Nigerian footballer Victor Udoh has died at the age of 21, with former clubs Southampton F.C. and Royal Antwerp F.C. confirming the development on Tuesday.
Udoh, a forward, spent part of 2025 with Southampton’s academy after joining the English side in February. During his short stay at the club, he featured eight times for the under-21 team in Premier League 2 matches.
Before moving to England, the Nigerian winger developed through the ranks at Royal Antwerp in Belgium. He played regularly for the club’s reserve side, the Young Reds, where he scored 12 goals in 27 appearances before earning promotion to the senior team. He went on to make 28 appearances for Antwerp’s first team.
Following his departure from Southampton in September 2025, Udoh moved to Czech second-division side Ceske Budejovice to continue his career.
In a statement shared on X, Southampton expressed sadness over the player’s passing.
“We are devastated by the tragic passing of former player Victor Udoh at the age of 21,” the club stated.
“The thoughts of everyone at the club go out to Victor’s loved ones at this extremely difficult time.”
Royal Antwerp also paid tribute to the late player, describing the news as heartbreaking.
“With great dismay, RAFC has learned of the passing of former player Victor Udoh,” the Belgian club said.
“Our thoughts are with Victor’s family, friends, and loved ones. We wish them much strength, support, and warmth during this particularly difficult time.”
The cause of Udoh’s death was not disclosed as of the time of filing this report.
