UAE football star dies in tragic car accident

UAE football star Theyab Awana has died after being involved in a tragic car accident on his way to Abu Dhabi, it was reported Monday. The 21 year-old national player, who was also a member of the country’s Olympic football team and Bani Yas football club, was pronounced dead yesterday evening, Sport 360 reported. Awana was driving back from a national team training camp in Al Ain with his brother when he lost control of the car, the paper said. The football star became an online sensation in July when a video showing his dramatic back-heeled penalty in a game against Lebanon became an internet hit.   Awana’s goal, which saw the No.13 take a penalty kick in the 78th minute made headlines thanks to its unique style. After jogging up as usual, the player spun 180 degrees to launch a back-heeled kick shot with his right foot, pass the keeper and into the left corner of the net.   Previously a member of the UAE under 18s national team, Awana proved himself early on, winning the 2008 AFC U-18 Cup in Dammam, Saudi Arabia, and qualifying for the 2009 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Egypt. His performance earned him a spot in both the senior and Olympic national teams, as well as the team which won the silver medal at the 2010 Asian Games in Guangzhou, China. Awana is to be buried later today at Bani Yas, the paper reported.