With Albion San Diego currently finding itself in the midst of an impressive eight-game undefeated streak, including seven in league play, the team, led by head coach Ziggy Korytoski, has not suffered a defeat since June 10.

The play of forward Alioune Diakhate, who is second in goal-scoring with nine only behind Markus Naglestad of Chattanooga FC, has been a major reason why Albion San Diego finds itself in third place in the NISA standings. Diakhate’s goals have come despite Albion having played only 11 league matches so far, the fewest of any team, and being a starter for nine of those meaning he averages one goal per start which is unmatched by any other player.

“My teammates are so great,” said Diakhate. “They are very good and easy-going guys, very professional and organized. They work hard every single day to make us the best team, it’s awesome to work with them.”

The 28-year-old was born in Dakar, Senegal, and got his inspiration to play soccer from his brother and father who were talented players in their own right. Diakhate arrived in the United States in 2018 and has already played at the Division II level domestically for USL Championship team Indy Eleven in 2019 along with having professional experience playing in Europe and Senegal. His continued motivation to play and to keep getting better comes from his wife Bridget and his son Mady.

“I want to thank my wife, she’s doing a lot of hard work keeping my son healthy and going to school so I am able to play soccer,” he added. “All my family in the United States are helping me and they follow me a lot so I can have this success.”

Diakhate has hopes of one day playing in Major League Soccer and is a fan of the NY Red Bulls. He still has unfinished business presently, however, with several key games coming up for Albion San Diego including one this Saturday, Sept. 3 versus LA Force followed by a home game at The Cage on the campus of Cal State San Marcos University versus Chattanooga FC.

If Albion San Diego gets a win on Saturday at LA Harbor College Stadium, a victory on Sept. 7 against Chattanooga would move them up to second place in the NISA standings. The top six teams at the end of the season make the playoffs with the number one and two seeds earning a first-round bye.

Photo courtesy of David Frerker