Fadiouf Ndiaye, captain of US Ouakam, has died after collapsing on the pitch during a Senegalese Ligue 1 fixture against Oslo FA on Saturday, sending shockwaves through the country’s football community.
The tragedy unfolded shortly before half-time at the Biram Ly Stadium in Parcelles Assainies.
Ndiaye, wearing the number 20 shirt, went down following a heavy collision.
Medical teams rushed to his aid, performing emergency resuscitation efforts on the pitch before he was transported to hospital.
Despite their attempts, the 31-year-old defender was pronounced dead en route.
Confirmation of his passing came shortly after the final whistle in a match that ended with a 2–0 victory for US Ouakam—nicknamed “the Sharks.” What should have been a moment of celebration was overshadowed by profound grief.
A product of US Ouakam’s youth system, Ndiaye made his senior debut in 2013 and quickly became a cornerstone of the team’s defence.
His leadership qualities, on and off the field, made him a natural choice for captain.
Following a brief spell at Jaraaf in 2017, he returned to Ouakam where he played a vital role in the club’s return to the top tier of Senegalese football.
Ndiaye was more than just a footballer to those around him.
He was described by teammates and coaches as a symbol of loyalty, humility, and strength—a player whose presence anchored the squad in difficult times and inspired younger talents coming through the ranks.
In the immediate aftermath of his death, the Senegalese Professional Football League (LSFP) announced the suspension of all league matches scheduled for Sunday and Monday as a mark of respect.
Le capitaine de l’U.S. Ouakam, Fadiouf Ndiaye, est décédé ce samedi après avoir été victime d’un malaise à la mi-temps du match.
Taggat présente ses sincères condoléances à sa famille, à ses proches et à l’ensemble du football sénégalais. pic.twitter.com/Ni5y4Id4JL
— Taggat (@taggatsn) May 17, 2025
Tributes have poured in from across the nation’s football landscape, with clubs, former players, and supporters expressing their condolences.
“Senegal has lost a man, a captain, a brother,” read a statement from US Ouakam. “His name will be engraved in the history of our club and in the hearts of all who love Senegalese football.”
The shock of Ndiaye’s sudden death has reignited concerns around player safety and medical preparedness at stadiums in the country.
However, for now, the focus remains on honouring the memory of a player who gave everything for his club.
Fadiouf Ndiaye’s legacy as a leader, mentor, and symbol of resilience will endure.
His loss leaves a void not only at US Ouakam, but in the soul of Senegalese football.
