Swiss football club Young Boys have expressed heartfelt condolences and unwavering support for their Congolese striker, Meschack Elia, following the tragic loss of one of his children to a brief illness.
The club, based in Bern, extended compassion and solidarity to Elia and his family during this difficult time, allowing him to prioritize family matters and granting him an exemption from participating in their crucial Champions League match.
Before the match, Young Boys honored their grieving teammate in a touching pre-game ceremony. Players laid bouquets of flowers on the field, and a solemn minute’s silence was observed to pay tribute to Elia and his family.
The heartfelt gestures highlighted the club’s solidarity with the 27-year-old striker, who is also a key player for the Democratic Republic of Congo national team.
Polish midfielder Łukasz Łakomy added a personal tribute during the match. After scoring the opening goal, Łakomy raised Elia’s number 15 jersey, dedicating the moment to his teammate.
The poignant act underscored the deep bond among the players and their shared grief.
The tragic news emerged on Tuesday evening when Elia learned of the unexpected death of one of his young sons in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Elia’s partner had traveled with their two children to the country, where the heartbreaking event occurred.
In a statement, BSC Young Boys conveyed their sorrow, writing, “We are deeply shocked by this devastating news. Our heartfelt condolences go out to Meschack Elia and his family.
We wish them strength and courage during this incredibly challenging time. We stand ready to support Meschack in every possible way.”
Elia, currently in Bern, is set to return to his home country on Wednesday to be with his family.
As a further mark of respect, the team will wear black armbands during their Champions League match in Stuttgart.
Another minute’s silence will also precede kick-off, underscoring the collective mourning and support from the club and its supporters.
Young Boys’ heartfelt response reflects the unity and empathy within the football community, reminding us that the bonds forged in sport often transcend the game itself.
6. Lakomy bringt YB durch einen Weitschuss mit 1:0 in Führung. Danach zeigt die Mannschaft, wem sie das Tor widmet: Sie posiert an der Seitenlinie mit einem Trikot von Meschack Elia.#bscyb #ybforever #ucl #vfbyb pic.twitter.com/0mCMJ1pv3t
— BSC YOUNG BOYS (@BSC_YB) December 11, 2024
