Cheikhou Kouyate Leaves Senegal Camp in Cote d'Ivoire After Losing Father on Tuesday

• Cheikhou Kouyate has left the Senegal camp in Cote d'Ivoire
• The Nottingham Forest midfielder has lost his father in Senegal
• Senegal started the 2023 AFCON with a big win against Gambia

Nottingham Forest midfielder, Cheikhou Kouyate has been granted permission to return home to Senegal following the death of his father on Tuesday, January 16, 2023.

The veteran midfielder, who was an unused substitute during Senegal's opening game against Gambia, was told of his father's passing while in camp with the Teranga Lions.

Kouyate has already left Yamoussoukro and will be expected in Dakar on Wednesday for the burial of his late father.

Mr Bandiougou, the player's father will be laid to rest according to Islamic customs as family members and friends meet at the Khar Yalla district mosque to pay their final respects.

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The Senegalese Football Federation confirmed the departure of the player on their official social media pages, with teammates consoling the ex-Crystal Palace star.

"Our player Cheikhou KOUYATÉ was authorized to leave the National Team group to go to the funeral of his father who passed away today in Dakar. Peace to his soul," wrote the Senegalese Football Federation.

Kouyate played a pivotal role as the Teranga Lions won the Africa Cup of Nations in Cameroon two years ago, as reported by Crystal Palace's official website.

Camara scores brace in Senegal win

Earlier, Sports Brief reported that talented youngster Lamine Camara scored twice as Senegal got off to a bright start in their title defence with a 3-0 victory over 10-man Gambia in Yamoussoukro on Monday.

Senegal moved top of the early Group C table after Cameroon were held by Guinea.

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The Teranga Lions showed enough quality in the Ivorian heat to suggest they could become the first team to win back-to-back AFCON titles since Egypt reeled off three in a row in 2006, 2008 and 2010.

Mane hails youngster Lamine Camara

Sports Brief also reported that Sadio Mane praised youngster Lamine Camara after his brace heroics in Senegal's opening-day victory over Gambia at the Africa Cup of Nations.

Senegal began the defence of their AFCON title in style after making light work of their neighbours in Group C of the tournament.

FC Metz's 20-year-old midfielder, Camara was the star of the show as he won the Man of the Match after the game in Yamoussoukro.