Lassana Diarra's cousin killed in Paris terror attacks while midfielder was playing for France against Germany
Asta Diakite was one of the 128 victims that died in a series of attacks across Paris on Friday
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Your support makes all the difference.Former Chelsea and Arsenal midfielder Lassana Diarra’s cousin was one of the victims of the Paris terror attacks on Friday night, with the footballer playing at the Stade de France for France when it was targeted by a suicide bomber.
Diarra took to Twitter to confirm that his cousin, Asta Diakite, was killed in the attacks across the French capital that saw at least 128 people die after eight gunmen tore through the city.
Marseille midfielder Diarra was playing for France against Germany when a blast was heard during the match, with an explosion at the stadium killing three suicide bombers and injuring many others.
Diarra wrote in French: “Good evening everyone,
“Following the dramatic events that occurred yesterday in Paris and Saint Denis, it is with heavy heart that I rise today.
“As you maybe have read, I have been personally affected by these attacks. My cousin, Asta Diakite, is among the victims of one of shootings that took place yesterday, as hundreds of other innocent French. She supported me… she was a big sister.
“In this climate of terror, it is important for all of us who are representatives of our country and its diversity, to speak and to remain united against a horror that has no colour, no religion.
“Defend all the love, respect and peace. Thank you all for your testimony and your messages, take care of yourself, and that our victims rest in peace.
“#PrayForPeace #FranceUnie
“See you soon, Lass.”
Diarra played 80 minutes at the Stade de France before coming off the pitch as he was replaced by Manchester United midfielder Morgan Schneiderlin.
The French Football Federation has already announced that Tuesday’s international friendly against England at Wembley Stadium will go ahead as planned in a move of deviance against the terrorist attackers, although whether Diarra plays any part is not known.
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