2026WCQ: Pape Thiaw hails Sadio Mané’s selflessness after Senegal’s dominant win

Senegal coach Pape Thiaw has praised Sadio Mané’s unselfishness following the team’s emphatic 5-0 victory over South Sudan on Friday, describing the forward’s decision to let a teammate take a penalty as a reflection of the squad’s unity and maturity.

After doubling Senegal’s lead early in the second half, Mané was presented with the chance to extend his personal tally when the Lions of Teranga were awarded a penalty in the 60th minute.

Instead of stepping up himself, the Al-Nassr star handed the ball to Nicolas Jackson, allowing the Chelsea striker to find the net.

Speaking after the match, Thiaw applauded the gesture as a mark of true leadership.

Sadio Mané is a great man. He showed today that he doesn’t play for statistics. Otherwise, he wouldn’t have given the penalty to Nicolas Jackson. It’s a noble gesture, which reflects the team’s state of mind. The understanding between the players is excellent, and I hope it will last, the coach said.

The decision, Thiaw added, embodies the spirit of camaraderie that has defined Senegal’s recent performances.

The team’s harmony was evident not only in Mané’s gesture but throughout a match where several players put the collective ahead of personal glory.

Cheikh Sabaly’s selfless assist for the fifth goal also caught the coach’s attention.

There are many noble gestures in this group, even if not everything is visible from the outside, Thiaw remarked. The players think about each other, and that makes all the difference.

Senegal’s commanding win over South Sudan, which brought them within touching distance of 2026 World Cup qualification, showcased the cohesion and discipline Thiaw has instilled in the side.

Every player contributed to the performance — from the defensive organization to the fluid attacking play that overwhelmed their opponents.

The Lions of Teranga, who now top Group B with 21 points, look increasingly confident as they close in on a place at the finals.

For Thiaw, the biggest victory lies not only in the scoreline but in the collective spirit driving his team.

As he concluded, We have talent, but what makes this team special is the way they play for each other. That’s the strength that will take us far.

Tags:
Senegal, Sadio Mané, Pape Thiaw, Nicolas Jackson, Cheikh Sabaly, South Sudan, World Cup 2026 Qualifiers, Lions of Teranga, CAF, Africa