Former Senegal midfielder Papa Bouba Diop dies aged 42

The football world is mourning the sudden loss of the 2002 FIFA World Cup’s first goalscorer, who tragically passed away aged 42.

Former Senegal midfielder Papa Bouba Diop has died at the age of 42 after a long illness, local media and the West African state’s football federation said on Sunday.

Diop is best known in his native country for scoring the winning goal against then defending champions France in the opening match of the 2002 World Cup.

The Senegalese squad went on to reach the quarter-finals of the tournament before they were knocked out by Turkey.

Diop was also part of the team that lost to Cameroon on penalties in the 2002 Africa Cup of Nations final.

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He won the 2008 FA Cup with Portsmouth in a club career that included stints at French club Lens, Fulham, West Ham United and Birmingham City.

FIFA is saddened to learn of the passing of Senegal legend Papa Bouba Diop.

Once a World Cup hero, always a World Cup hero. pic.twitter.com/akUJoPxCal

— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) November 29, 2020

Rest in Peace, Papa Bouba Diop 🌹😔

The Senegal legend and former Premier League star has passed away after a long battle with illness, aged 42.#PL #OptusSport pic.twitter.com/Xy6ECk6JNh

— Optus Sport (@OptusSport) November 29, 2020

How tragic that Motor Neurone Disease has claimed the life of another footballer.
In the past 13 months, we lost Marius Zaliukas, David Hagen & Fernando Ricksen to MND.
Today former-Senegal captain Papa Bouba Diop - an absolute powerhouse of a man - passed away at just 42. RIP. pic.twitter.com/DEYrpCjb3k

— David Tanner (@DavidTannerTV) November 29, 2020

Victor Cisse, the secretary-general of the Senegalese football federation, confirmed Diop’s death to AFP.

Senegal’s President Macky Sall said on Twitter on Sunday it was a “great loss” for the country.

“I pay tribute to a good footballer, respected by all for his courtesy and his talent, proudly reminding us of the Lions saga in 2002,” Sall tweeted.

“I offer my heartfelt condolences to his family and to the football world.”

— AFP