Germain Berthé, a former goalkeeper for Mali, has died. He was 33 years old.

The soccer world is mourning the death of Germain Berthé, a goalkeeper born in 1993 who played for Real Bamako, a Malian club competing in the Malian Première Division. The cause of Berthé’s death has not been disclosed.

Having come up through the youth ranks at AS Police, the player then moved to Onze Créateurs and later joined Horoya, a Guinean club based in Conakry. He had been playing for Real Bamako since 2020. Berthé also made five appearances for Mali’s senior national team.

This is the official statement from the Malian Football Federation: “The Executive Committee of the Malian Football Federation has learned with deep sorrow of the passing of the former goalkeeper of the Eagles of Mali, Germain Berthé, which occurred on Friday, July 17, 2026, in Ségou. At this time of mourning, President Mahazou, also known as Baba Cisset, and the entire Executive Committee of FEMAFOOT extend their deepest condolences to the family and pray for his soul.”

“The Executive Committee pays tribute to the memory of an athlete who courageously defended the Malian national team’s jersey at all levels, as well as those of the clubs for which he played. May Allah grant him His mercy!” the statement concludes.

“It is with deep sorrow that we have learned of the passing of Germain Berthé, former goalkeeper for our club and the Malian national team,” wrote Horoya. “A talented goalkeeper, he left his mark thanks to his professionalism, his dedication, and his love for the jersey. Beyond his performances on the field, Germain Berthé will be remembered as a figure respected and loved by all those who had the privilege of sharing his journey.”

“The entire Horoya Athletic Club family extends its most sincere condolences to his family, his loved ones, and the entire Malian and African sports community. His memory will remain forever etched in our hearts. May his soul rest in peace.”