Tearful Ivory Coast midfielder Serey Die said the emotion of playing at the World Cup had simply overcome him during his country’s national anthem before they lost to Colombia on Thursday.
Pictures of Die crying during the Elephants’ hymn were beamed around the world, sparking social media rumours that his father had died just a few hours before kick-off.
Die dismissed those rumours and said it was simply the occasion that got to him in Brasilia.
“I’m a very emotional person. My life has always been difficult. I thought about my father who died in 2004, and I also thought about my tough life,” said Die.
“I never thought I would be here one day, that one day I would play for my country. That emotion took over.
“I fought (to hold back the tears) but I couldn’t. I didn’t think that could happen to me but it was stronger than me.”
Despite their defeat to the South Americans, Ivory Coast are still well-placed to qualify for the last 16 having beaten Japan in their opening Group C match.
They face Greece on Tuesday knowing a win should be enough to progress.
Wouldn’t be the end of the world if he missed out in fairness
Bottom line is we have better alternatives.
Thats decent from Stoke,Everton didn’t even allow Ireland to pass judgement on Coleman and McCarthy before Germany.
Don’t want to be Whelan-bashing, but we came to life when he went off in Gelsenkirchen. Instinct is to play backwards all the time. Suited Trap perfectly but hopefully we have moved on.
If gibson isn’t fit enough, think id like to see mccarthy and hendrick in the centre
Let’s hope he’s not!
Who gives à shit
Mark Hughes said he’s not ready !!! Ireland are entitled to call him up but stokes physios say he’s a couple of weeks away ….