Koulibaly and I

If I had been a professional football player, Kalidou Koulibaly is whom I would have liked to emulate. I have admired the great Senegalese footballer since his times in Napoli (my favourite Italian side), when he was undoubtedly one of the best defenders in the Serie A and in the world. His strength, defensive vision, uncompromising style, and hard work, are qualities that I also try to have in my own working life. 

In 2022, before the World Cup, I was driving through Senegal, where I purchased a Koulibaly shirt, and proclaimed myself as his greatest fan amid the laughs of Senegalese and foreigners alike. I was wearing that very shirt when I celebrated his fantastic goal against Ecuador in the 2022 World Cup, and I have always kept admiring him, although not following his career as he moved to Saudi Arabia.

As Senegal faced Norway I was happy to see him on the pitch in what was surely to be a great match, and indeed it was, but not for myself or Koulibaly. In the 43rd minute, after a good match by the West Africans, Koulibaly gave the ball away to Marcus Holmgren Pedersen, who resolutely shot and scored Norway's first goal. Soon into the second half, Koulibaly was late on an interception on a pass by Ødegaard to Erling Haaland, allowing the Manchester City striker a shot that he seldomly misses. Again in the third Norwegian goal (after Ismaila Sarr had pulled one up for Senegal), Koulibaly seemed slow as Haaland scored again, and in the end the great Koulibaly was substituted.

Senegal scored a second almost at the end, and was close to equalising, but in the end Norway prevailed, and Senegal are likely out after two great matches but (defeats nonetheless) against France and Norway.

I like Norway, but found myself disappointed about Senegal's defeat, but most of all I was saddened because of Koulibaly, whom I identified with more than ever: a great youth behind us, but having reached the age where we reluctantly have to accept one is no longer as sharp or good at things any more. That not much is ahead but the memories.