Tearful Ivory Coast midfielder Serey Die said the emotion of playing at the World Cup had simply overcome him during his country’s national anthem before they lost to Colombia on Thursday.
Pictures of Die crying during the Elephants’ hymn were beamed around the world, sparking social media rumours that his father had died just a few hours before kick-off.
Die dismissed those rumours and said it was simply the occasion that got to him in Brasilia.
“I’m a very emotional person. My life has always been difficult. I thought about my father who died in 2004, and I also thought about my tough life,” said Die.
“I never thought I would be here one day, that one day I would play for my country. That emotion took over.
“I fought (to hold back the tears) but I couldn’t. I didn’t think that could happen to me but it was stronger than me.”
Despite their defeat to the South Americans, Ivory Coast are still well-placed to qualify for the last 16 having beaten Japan in their opening Group C match.
They face Greece on Tuesday knowing a win should be enough to progress.
