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Rayo Vallecano explains silence on Pathé Ciss’ AFCON triumph

By Oluwatobiloba Zeal-Adepetu Kumoye

By Mishael Emmanuel 
  
 

Spanish La Liga side Rayo Vallecano has defended its decision not to immediately honor Senegalese midfielder Pathé Ciss following Senegal’s historic Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title, citing respect for victims of a national tragedy.

Ciss was part of the Senegal squad that lifted the AFCON trophy last Sunday after defeating Morocco in the final.

However, Rayo fans noticed the club did not pay tribute to the midfielder before their 3-1 home defeat to Osasuna, sparking criticism on social media.

Spanish media reports revealed that Ciss himself retweeted a post from a fan questioning the club’s silence.

In a statement released on Sunday, Rayo Vallecano explained that the decision was taken out of respect for victims of two deadly train crashes that occurred in Spain last week.

“It was deemed inappropriate to hold any kind of celebration on a day of mourning,” the club said. “The team wore black armbands and observed a minute’s silence in memory of those who died in the tragic train accidents.”

The club emphasized that the decision was not a slight on Ciss’ achievement, adding that a “well-deserved recognition” for the midfielder will take place before Rayo’s next home league match against Oviedo on February 7.

As a mark of solidarity, a minute of silence was observed before kickoff in all Spanish league matches played over the weekend.

Elsewhere in La Liga, Villarreal on Saturday paid tribute to another Senegalese AFCON winner, Pape Gueye, who proudly presented his winner’s medal and the tournament trophy to supporters.

Senegal’s AFCON success continues to be celebrated across Europe, with Spanish clubs balancing recognition of sporting achievements and respect for national mourning.
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