Raphael Dwamena was a talented Ghanaian footballer born on 12 September 1995 in Nkawkaw. He began his football journey with the Red Bull Ghana developmental programme, where his skill quickly shone through.

Dwamena helped his team to a silver medal at an international tournament in France in 2013, where he was named the best player. His promising performances earned him a move to Austria in 2014, joining FC Liefering, the farm team of Red Bull Salzburg. There, he started making his mark as a clinical forward with an eye for goal.

Dwamena’s career took him to several European clubs, including Austria Lustenau, FC Zürich, and Spain’s Levante UD. He showed great promise, especially during his time with Zürich, helping the club to promotion into the top Swiss league.

However, his career was repeatedly hampered by heart problems first diagnosed in 2017. Despite undergoing surgery to fit an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) to monitor his heart condition, Dwamena’s health challenges limited his playing time.

Nevertheless, his determination to continue playing professional football remained strong as he joined clubs in Denmark and later Albania, showing his passion and resilience.

Tragically, on 11 November 2023, while playing in the Albanian league, Dwamena collapsed on the pitch and passed away at the age of 28.

His untimely death brought an outpouring of grief from the football community, highlighting both the fragile nature of life and the extraordinary spirit of a player who fought to pursue his dream despite formidable obstacles.

Raphael Dwamena is remembered not only for his flair and goals but also for his courage in the face of adversity, inspiring many young Ghanaian footballers to follow in his footsteps.