The Confederation Africain de Football has mourned the untimely passing of Mauritanian national team goalkeeper, Mohamed El Mokhtar.
“The 21-year-old goalkeeper sadly lost his life due to an unforeseen collision while at training, which resulted in head trauma that saw the young goalkeeper sadly passing,” a late Sunday statement on the CAF website read.
The association president, Dr Patrice Motsepe, prayed eternal rest for the soul of the country’s U21 goalkeeper.
“CAF President, Dr Patrice Motsepe has conveyed his heartfelt condolences to Mohamed El Mokhtar’s family, club and the Mauritanian Football Federation.
“May the soul of Mohamed El Mokhtar rest in peace,” it further read.
According to multiple reports, the goalie slipped while training with his club, AS Douanes and went into a week-long coma before eventually passing away.
The tragic news resulted in the FFRIM cancelling the Mauritanian Cup final between Douanes and Nouadhibou, which was set to take place on the same day, KingFut reports.
“The FFRIM mourns the death of national team goalkeeper Mohamed El-Mokhtar, who passed away this Saturday morning in Nouakchott,” a statement said.
Meanwhile, in a statement posted on their Facebook page, the Mauritanian Football Federation expressed deep sorrow, highlighting Al-Mokhtar’s profound patriotism, exceptional talent, and unwavering dedication.
“Despite his youth, Al-Mokhtar’s remarkable skills propelled him through the ranks, from representing the junior national team to earning a spot on the senior national team.
“His colleagues remember him for his sincerity, professionalism, and admirable character,” it stated.
