Senegal striker Sadio Mané praised former Liverpool teammate Mohamed Salah as ‘one of the best players in the world’ following his side’s 1-0 victory over Egypt in the Africa Cup of Nations semi-final in Tangier on Wednesday.
Mané’s 78th-minute strike proved decisive, sending the Teranga Lions into their third AFCON final in four editions, where they will face hosts Morocco on Sunday.
Senegal’s path to the final was marked by resilience and precision, with Mané once again demonstrating his knack for delivering in crucial moments.
Speaking at a post-match press conference, Mané was generous in his appraisal of Egypt and Salah, reflecting on their shared years at Liverpool under Jürgen Klopp.
“I pay tribute to Egypt of course and as I always said, Egypt is for me the best ever team in Africa,” he said. “Today they showed it again. Wow. What a team.
“It was not easy for us and we expect that because it’s Africa Cup and we’re travelling, but we keep patient … facing these great players, especially Mo Salah, one of the best players in the world.
“Of course he always gives his best for the team, unfortunate for him today as well. I just want to say this is part of football.”
Mané’s goal highlighted the intensity of the clash, as Egypt’s defence, led by Salah, resisted Senegal for much of the game. The match also marked the third time Mané had outmaneuvered Salah in a high-stakes encounter, cementing his reputation as one of Africa’s most decisive forwards.
