Unexpected Hero: The Goalkeeper Who Defended Towels

Yéhvann Diouf, Senegal's second-choice goalkeeper, became an unlikely hero during the Africa Cup of Nations final. While Edouard Mendy played on, Diouf defended Mendy's towels from ball boys, a crucial role that earned him acclaim. Despite the unusual duty, his actions were praised as vital to Senegal's victory.

Senegal's unexpected hero emerged not on the field, but on the sidelines during the chaotic Africa Cup of Nations final.

Yéhvann Diouf, the second-choice goalkeeper, played a unique and crucial role in safeguarding the towels of starting keeper Edouard Mendy. These towels, essential for drying gloves in the rain-soaked match in Rabat, became the target of repeated attempts by ball boys to snatch them away.

Diouf's valiant efforts involved fending off ball boys, at times even lying on the pitch to protect the towels. His actions garnered widespread praise, nearly as pivotal as the winning goal by Pape Gueye. Diouf, who commemorated the episode humorously with a medal-and-towel photo post-match, was hailed as a national hero.

(With inputs from agencies.)