Senegal forward Sadio Mané has revealed how he played a key role in persuading his teammates not to abandon the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final against Morocco.
The Teranga Lions briefly walked off the pitch and threatened to boycott the match after Morocco were awarded a late penalty following a foul on Brahim Diaz in the 18-yard box.
Although head coach Pape Thiaw urged the players to walk out, Mané intervened and urged them to return to the field.
When play resumed, Diaz’s panenka was saved by Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy, keeping the score at 0-0 at the end of regulation time.
In the first half of extra time, Pape Gueye produced a stunning strike to secure a 1-0 victory for Senegal, earning the nation its second AFCON title.
After the game, Mané—who was named the tournament’s Best Player—explained his decision, saying, “Just imagine for a second going into the locker rooms and the football match stopping there. I think that would convey a negative image of our football. I think Africa today does not deserve that.”
“African football has evolved in an incredible way, and the proof is that it is followed all over the world. So, on my side, I did what I had to do,” he added.
With the win, Mané has joined an elite group of players to have lifted the AFCON trophy twice.
