According to a number of reports, Bouba Diop had been suffering with a long-time illness, Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease. So too did world governing body FIFA, who declared: “FIFA is saddened to learn of the passing of Senegal legend Papa Bouba Diop. "Once a World Cup hero, always a World Cup hero." (Image: GETTY)Diop became a national hero when he scored the goal which saw Senegal beat France 1-0 in their opening World Cup game in 2002. RIP Papa Bouba Diop.”Former club Fulham stated: "We are devastated to hear news reports this evening that Papa Bouba Diop has passed away, aged 42.

Source: Daily Mirror November 29, 2020 17:46 UTC