AFCON: Senegal coach hospitalised over ‘benign infection’

Aliou Cisse, the coach of the Senegalese national team, was on Friday hospitalised in Ivory Coast due to an illness.

The 47-year-old was taken to the Yamoussoukro hospital after his side defeated Cameroon 3-1 in the second group match of the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), according to Canal+ Sport.

In a statement, the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) said Cisse was treated for a “benign infection”.

The statement however did not provide details on the nature of the former Portsmouth FC defender’s medical condition.

“The Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) informs the public that coach Aliou Cisse was taken care of by the medical staff and care services of the Yamoussoukro hospital for a benign infectious pathology on Friday, January 19, 2024 in the evening after the Senegal-Cameroun match,” the statement reads.

As of the time of this report, Cisse, who had been kept overnight for tests, has been released from the hospital.

The FSF also added that Abdallah Sima, one of its players, has left the tournament and returned to Glasgow Rangers, his Scottish club side, due to an injury.

“In addition, the FSF informs that player Abdallah Sima left the den today after passing exams following an injury contracted during training on Wednesday,” it said.

“Seeing an injury to the long adductor of the left thigh resulting in a long unavailability of the player, the medical staff of the selection and his club, Glasgow Rangers decided to return to the club for optimal management of his injury.”

Senegal, the reigning AFCON champions, are seeking to defend their title in Ivory Coast.

The tournament favourites have been impressive so far with wins in their opening two matches, scoring three goals in each match.