AFCON 2025: Can Sadio Mane deliver Senegal’s second title in his last dance?

Sadio Mane has hinted that Sunday’s final against Morocco might be his last appearance at the Africa Cup of Nations.

Speaking in his post-match interview after scoring the winner for the Lions of Teranga in their semi-final game against Egypt, Mane said, “I will be very happy to play my last AFCON final, to enjoy it and to make my country win.”

In what could be his last match at the continental showpiece, can Mane deliver what will be Senegal’s second AFCON title in their history?

For Mane, footballing glory began far from the bright lights of Europe, on the red-earth streets of Bambali, Senegal, where he honed his skills on sandy pitches and watched Liverpool’s famous 2005 Champions League comeback. Since then, he has lifted the Champions League, the Premier League, and already has an AFCON title with the Teranga Lions from 2021, when he scored the winning penalty in the final against Egypt.

A stadium in Sedhiou, just under 20km from his hometown, now bears his name, a testament to his lasting impact on Senegalese football.

Mane’s potential AFCON swan song has inspired his teammates. Midfielder Pape Gueye revealed the squad hopes to convince Mane to reconsider stepping away from the tournament.

“We’re going to try to keep him with us a bit longer, because he still has some great years to give. I heard what he said and we’ll see what he decides to do. But we really want aim to stay with us for many more years,” he said.

As Senegal face host nation Morocco at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, all eyes will be on Mane to see if he can once again lift his country to glory and perhaps cap his AFCON career in spectacular fashion.