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Papa Bouba Diop, Senegal legend and former Portsmouth and Fulham midfielder, has died at the age of 42.
Diop secured his place in his country’s history by scoring the winning goal against defending champions France in his first World Cup match in 2002. Senegal reached the quarter-finals.
FIFA confirmed the midfielder’s death, saying: “FIFA is saddened to learn of the passing of Senegal legend Papa Bouba Diop. Once a World Cup hero, always a World Cup hero.”
He also enjoyed a long career in England, where he was affectionately known as the ‘wardrobe’ due to his stature, after joining Fulham from French club Lens in 2004.
The London club tweeted: “We are devastated to hear the news reports tonight that Papa Bouba Diop passed away, aged 42.
“Rest well, Wardrobe.”
Diop was part of Senegal’s memorable run to the World Cup quarter-finals in 2002
Diop joined Portsmouth from Fulham and was part of the team that won the 2008 FA Cup. The club tweeted Sunday night: “We are devastated to hear reports that FA Cup winner Papa Bouba Diop passed away. after a long illness, at 42 years old.
“Rest in peace, The Closet.”
Diop went on to play for West Ham after leaving Porstmouth, through a brief stint in Greece with AEK Athens, and the club said: “Everyone at West Ham United is saddened to learn of the passing of Papa Bouba Diop at 42 years.
“As part of our 2011/12 promotion winning team, he will always be a part of our club. Our thoughts are with his family at this time. Rest in peace, Dad.”
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