Edouard Mendy bids farewell to Senegal after historic AFCON and World Cup journey

Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy has announced his retirement from international football after an eight-year career with the Teranga Lions that included Africa Cup of Nations success and two World Cup appearances.

The 34-year-old Al-Ahli Saudi FC goalkeeper announced his decision in a video posted on his official Instagram account, accompanying the message with the words: “Thank you, Senegal.”

Mendy’s video reflected on his international journey, which began in 2018 and ended with his participation in the 2026 World Cup finals in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Mendy leaves after historic Senegal career

Mendy made his Senegal debut under former head coach Aliou Cisse in 2018 and went on to make 59 appearances for the national team.

During that period, he conceded 34 goals and recorded 31 clean sheets, establishing himself as one of Senegal’s most important players of the modern era.

His international career also saw him help Senegal reach two World Cup tournaments, in 2022 and 2026.

The goalkeeper’s greatest achievement came in 2021, when Senegal won their first Africa Cup of Nations title by defeating Egypt in the final.

AFCON triumphs define Mendy’s international journey

Mendy also highlighted Senegal’s 2025 AFCON final victory over Morocco among the major achievements of his international career.

That title, however, was subsequently withdrawn from Senegal by the Confederation of African Football after the players left the field before the end of regular time during the final against Morocco.

Despite that development, Mendy’s international record includes an AFCON triumph in 2021 and two further final appearances, with Senegal finishing runners-up in 2019 and reaching the 2025 final.

His eight-year spell with the national team therefore included some of the most significant moments in Senegalese football.

Mendy now leaves international football having represented Senegal at the highest level and helped the country establish itself as one of Africa’s leading football nations.