In a heartfelt moment of grief, Nottingham Forest and Senegal stalwart Cheikhou Kouyate has taken a poignant pause from the Africa Cup of Nations, compelled by the passing of his father, Mr. Bangiougou Kouyate.
The Senegalese Football Federation, along with President Augustin Senghor, the national team coach Aliou Cisse, and the entire football fraternity, expresses profound sorrow at this loss.
Cheikhou Kouyate, a seasoned player with 88 senior caps, was granted compassionate leave to return to Dakar, Senegal, as he copes with this personal tragedy.
His absence from the pitch, even as an unused substitute in Senegal’s first group game, echoes the profound impact of the loss.
In these sombre moments, the football community extends its condolences, sharing in the pain of Cheikhou Kouyate and his family.
The funeral rites for Mr. Bangiougou Kouyate are scheduled for Wednesday, January 17, at the Khar Yalla mosque, with the burial to follow at the Musalman cemetery in Yoff. May his soul rest in peace.