The reason as to why a 2023 Africa Cup of Nations star refused to celebrate his stunning strike in the quarter-finals has now reportedly been revealed.
Last Saturday, Mali forward Nene Dorgeles scored a breathtaking goal that almost saw his nation reach the semi-finals of the competition.
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The strike, however, proved to not be enough as Les Aigles ended up being beaten 2-1 by hosts Ivory Coasts, bringing an end to their dream of becoming continental champions for the first time.
Despite being eliminated from the tournament, the 21-year-old's goal will live long not only in his memory but the memories of Malians who tuned in to see their team put up a valiant display in their quarter-final.
With the score at 0-0, the man who plies his trade in Austria for Bundesliga giants Red Bull Salzburg made a considerable impact on the game's proceedings in the 71st minute.
Dorgeles received the ball on the left wing before cutting in, beating a defender, and then powerfully slotting the ball into the back of the net past a helpless Yahia Fofana.
He has Ivorian parent!Muted ?? celebration by Nene Dorgeles after scoring for his country of birth #Mali against the country of his parent.pic.twitter.com/kJnEvDZg6G
— Oluwashina Okeleji (@oluwashina) February 3, 2024
Despite the significance of the goal, its brilliant execution, and the occasion, though, the attacker surprised many when he decided to halt his goal celebration.
It has since been reported that Dorgeles decided against celebrating the goal because it came against the country his parents are from.
According to Players Bio, the star was born in Kayes, Mali, following his parents' departure from Ivory Coast.
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The starlet began his career at Mali side Guidars FC before signing for RB Salzburg in 2021, where he seems to have become an integral member of the squad.
Dorgeles has made 23 appearances in all competitions for his club so far this season, scoring two goals and contributing with another four assists.
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