Southampton, Antwerp pay tribute as Victor Udoh dies aged 21
Southampton FC and Belgian side Royal Antwerp have announced the death of former academy player Victor Udoh at the age of 21.
Udoh, a Nigerian left‑winger, spent six months in Southampton’s academy from February 2025, featuring in eight matches for their under‑21 side in Premier League 2 and scoring twice.
Before his move to England, he had developed at Antwerp’s academy, where he played 27 times for the ‘Young Reds’ team, scoring 12 goals, before making 28 senior appearances in the Belgian Pro League.
After leaving Southampton in September 2025, Udoh joined Czech second‑tier side Ceske Budejovice.
Southampton expressed their condolences in a statement: ‘We are devastated by the tragic passing of former player Victor Udoh at the age of 21. The thoughts of everyone at the club go out to Victor’s loved ones at this extremely difficult time.’
Royal Antwerp also paid tribute: ‘With great dismay, RAFC has learned of the passing of former player Victor Udoh. Our thoughts are with Victor’s family, friends, and loved ones. We wish them much strength, support, and warmth during this particularly difficult time.’
