Ivorian football is in mourning. Digbeu Emmanuel, affectionately nicknamed "Micoly" and emblematic captain of CO Bouaflé, passed away on Tuesday, May 19, 2026. The defender succumbed to complications from a violent collision sustained during a match.

The information was made official this Wednesday, May 20, 2026 by the Ivorian Football Federation (FIF), via an official statement signed in Abidjan by its Executive Director, G. Armand-Désiré Gohourou.

A fatal shock in the middle of the championship

The tragedy began approximately two weeks ago, during the 24th matchday of the Ligue 2 championship, in the game between Lanfiara d'Attécoubé and CO Bouaflé . Injured during the game, the captain unfortunately succumbed to his injuries. At present, the Ivorian Football Federation (FIF) has not provided any further medical details regarding the exact nature of his injuries.

The Ivorian Football Federation's tribute to an exemplary leader

In its statement, the federal body paid tribute to the player's memory:

"The Ivorian Football Federation (FIF) commends Digbeu Emmanuel's leadership and his deep commitment to sporting values."

The federation also offered its sincerest condolences:

1. To the family of the deceased;
2. To his teammates and the leaders of CO Bouaflé;
3. To all the people and supporters of the Marahoué region.

A tough blow for CO Bouaflé

This tragic loss comes at a pivotal moment in the season, as the fight for survival and promotion to Ligue 1 intensifies. CO Bouaflé is thus deprived of its leader on the pitch with only a few matches remaining in the championship.

This type of tragedy, resulting from a game-related injury, remains a particularly rare event in Ivory Coast and sparks an unprecedented wave of emotion and sadness within the national sporting community.