Villareal Present Special Gift to Senegal’s Boulaye Dia Following AFCON Triumph

• Boulaye Dia has been presented with a boot-shaped plaque by Villareal after helping Senegal win the Africa Cup of Nations
• The striker played a key role as the Teranga Lions won the Africa Cup of Nations for the first time in Senegal's history
• Boulaye Dia was given a heroes welcome as the fans applauded him on his return to the El Madrigal before the game against Real Madrid

Boulaye Dia, an unsung hero from Senegal's Africa Cup of Nations team, was given a standing ovation and presented with a boot-shaped plaque by Villareal following his return from international duty.

The 25-year-old attacker featured prominently as the Teranga Lions won the competition for the first time in their history a week ago.

Before Villareal's game against Real Madrid, the club presented him with a gift to appreciate his newest achievement.

"We're very proud of you, Boulaye Dia. Congratulations on your AFCON 2021 win," wrote Villareal on Twitter.

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Dia played six of Senegal's games in Cameroon, starting five as they emerged champions. He was an important member of the team despite not scoring a goal for Senegal.

In La Liga this season, he has made 16 appearances, scoring four goals for the yellow submarines.

Senegal duo Diallo and Gueye receive heroes welcome at PSG

Earlier, Sports Brief reported that Abdou Diallo and Idrissa Gana Gueye were treated to a heroes welcome by French giants Paris Saint Germain following their return from a successful Africa Cup of Nations.

The PSG duo were key as Senegal won their first-ever AFCON title after beating seven-times winners Egypt on penalties in the final.

In a video posted on social media, sighted by Sports Brief, the Senegal stars were embraced by the teammates and president of the club, as they were paraded in front of fans before the Stade Rennes game on Friday night.

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Villareal hold Real Madrid to a goalless draw

Real Madrid's lead at the top of the La Liga table is now four points after dropping points in their game against Villareal at the El Madrigal on Saturday, February 12, 2022.

The Spanish giants were toothless in front of goal as a resolute Villareal shared the spoils with the league leaders.

Wales captain and Real Madrid winger Gareth Bale played his first game for the club since picking up an injury in August last year.