Pathe Ciss takes dig at Vallecano mate Ilias Akhomach

Senegal midfielder Pathe Ciss has taken a dig at Morocco winger and Rayo Vallecano teammate, Ilias Akhomach over the controversial ruling by Africa’ football governing body CAF.

Amid the ongoing tension surrounding the CAF’s decision to strip Senegal of its African Cup of Nations title, Pathé Ciss chose to deliver a sarcastic message to his Moroccan counterpart who is on loan from Villarreal.

Ilias Akhomach played three AFCON games

“I was planning to bring it [medal] to give to Ilias Akhomach, but he didn’t want it.” Pathe Ciss said after their UEFA Conference League progression from the Knockout phase.

The Confederation of African Football’s Appeal Board in its recent verdict, declared Senegal losers of the 2025 AFCON after citing forfeiture on the part of the Teranga Lions.

Articles 82 and 84 was activated in the ruling, awarding the Atlas Lions 3-0 victory, a decision that has raised eyebrows across the globe.

Senegal have since made their intentions clear of contesting the case at the Court of Arbitration for Sports [CAS].

Rayo Vallecano eliminate Samsunspor

Vallecano defeated Samsunspor 3-1 in the first fixture of the UEFA Conference League with the reverse game ending 1-0 in favour of the Turkish outfit.

The La Liga side however booked their spot in the quarter final phase on 3-2 aggregate and Pathe Cisse could not hide his joy over their qualification.

The 32-year-old midfielder spoke in the mixed zone.

“I’m happier than angry. How could I be angry when I have my medal here? No one can take it away from me,” he said, referring to the victory achieved on the pitch.

Pathe Ciss played five matches as Senegal pipped hosts Morocco 1-0 in the finals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and he has played 20 games with two goals for Vallecano this campaign.

The 28-capped international formerly played for Famalicao, Uniao Madeira, CF Fuenlabrada before joining Rayo Vallecano.