In the high-stakes atmosphere of the Champions League playoffs, Serhou Guirassy proved once again why he is one of Europe’s most elite strikers. Scoring just three minutes into Borussia Dortmund’s 2–0 victory over Atalanta on Tuesday night, the Guinean forward chose to share a deeply personal moment with the world.
Instead of a standard celebration, Guirassy lifted his jersey to reveal a handwritten message:
“Aissata Guirassy – May she be welcomed into His vast paradise. Amen.”
A Tragic Family Loss
Speaking to Amazon Prime after the match, an emotional Guirassy confirmed the tribute was for his young niece, the daughter of his older brother, who recently passed away.
-
The Emotional Toll: “It is a very difficult time for our family,” Guirassy said, often looking toward the sky during the interview. “We are all standing by my brother. Life can be harsh, but it goes on, and we must try to be strong. We will all face death one day.”
-
The Manager’s Perspective: Dortmund coach Niko Kovac admitted after the game that he was unaware of the tragedy. “I knew nothing about his personal situation, so I cannot comment on it,” Kovac stated, though he praised the striker’s professional focus.
The Man of the Match Performance
Despite the private grief, Guirassy was the undisputed engine behind Dortmund’s first-leg advantage.
| Category | Performance vs. Atalanta |
| Early Impact | Goal in the 3rd minute (assisted by Ryerson). |
| Playmaking | Provided the assist for Maximilian Beier’s 42nd-minute goal. |
| Official Recognition | Named UEFA Player of the Match. |
| Recent Form | 7 goals and 2 assists in his last 7 appearances. |
The Road to the Round of 16
With a comfortable 2–0 lead, Dortmund travels to Bergamo for the second leg on February 25. Guirassy’s clinical form—having finished as the Champions League joint-top scorer last season with 13 goals—remains the German side’s greatest asset as they look to secure their spot in the next round.