Stade d'Abidjan winger Cheick Moukoro
Photo Credit: Stade d'Abidjan Officiel
Cheick Moukoro, an attacker for Stade d'Abidjan, faced Al Ahly in the opening match of the CAF Champions League group stage. After the match, Cheick received a special gift of memorabilia from Al Ahly midfielder Emam Ashour. In an exclusive interview with Pan-Africa Football, Moukoro reveals more about the significance of this exchange and the bond between the two players.
A meaningful gesture, not sought after
In an exclusive interview with Pan-Africa Football, the one-time Ivorian national team member Moukoro clarified that he did not ask for the shirt or shoes of Ashour. He explained that the two players share a long history having first met years ago when Cheick was playing for Egyptian club Al Masry and Ashour was a rising talent with Haras El Hodoud. At that time, Ashour was much younger and Cheick had no idea that their paths would cross again in such a special way.
The now 33-year-old recalled how, during warm-ups, Ashour was visibly excited to see him and they exchanged warm greetings and hugs. After the match, Cheick was surprised to find Ashour approaching him on the field offering his shirt and even removing his shoes to give as a gift.
"This is a souvenir for me," Cheick remarked to Pan-Africa Football. "It comes from someone I knew in the past and I’m very happy for him that he has reached this level as a star today."
A gift from a former teammate
When asked more about receiving the memorabilia, Cheick emphasized that he didn’t seek the gift. He mentioned that both teams were fully focused on the match and while it was a pleasant surprise, it was not something he actively pursued. Cheick expressed great respect for Ashour, acknowledging him as a star but making it clear that receiving the gift wasn’t part of any particular plan or request.
"It’s a pleasure for me to have his shirt as a souvenir," Cheick told Pan-Africa Football.
No change in motivation: A personal connection
Cheick was also asked whether receiving the gift motivated him in any way. He firmly responded that it did not. "I didn’t go out seeking his shirt," Cheick said. "In Ivory Coast, things don’t work like that. Receiving a gift from a star is a big deal in their culture but in ours we stay grounded and humble."
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