Former Senegal international Papa Bouba Diop has passed away after a long illness at the age of 42.
Diop was one of the heroes of Senegal’s memorable run to the 2002 World Cup quarter-finals, scoring the only goal in a shock 1-0 victory over then-holders in their opening game.
The former midfielder played for and Portsmouth in the – winning the FA Cup win Pompey in 2008.
Former Senegal international Papa Bouba Diop has passed away at age of 42 after long illness
Diop scored the winner in a famous 1-0 win for Senegal against France at the 2002 World Cup
The Senegal side won the hearts of many for their performance in the 2002 tournament in Japan and South Korea, with Diop also scoring twice in a 3-3 group stage draw against Uruguay before they were eliminated by Turkey in the last eight.
He was also a member of Pompey’s triumphant 2008 FA Cup side, being introduced by manager Harry Redknapp as a late substitute in the 1-0 Final victory over Cardiff City.
In a much-travelled career amassing 325 games and 63 internationals, Diop also played for clubs in Switzerland, France and Greece before returning to play in England for West Ham United and then Birmingham City before his retirement in 2013.
The former midfielder was one of the star names of Senegal’s memorable run to quarter-finals
He was part of the Portsmouth side that won the 2008 FA Cup after coming on as a sub in final
hienalouca.com
