Sadio Mane expressed huge joy after Senegal’s 1–0 win over Egypt in the AFCON 2025 semi-final, while hinting this could be his last Africa Cup of Nations.
The Al Nassr forward scored the only goal to send the Teranga Lions into the final in Morocco.
Mane said the team always knew the clash would be difficult and that previous meetings with Egypt had taught them a lot about the Pharaohs’ strengths.
He explained that Senegal used their experience to prevent Egypt from creating real chances, controlling midfield and placing tight marking on Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush to neutralise their threat.
The Senegal star praised his teammates for finding the right balance between defence, midfield and attack, stressing that everyone fought and gave their maximum.
On his goal, he noted that he positioned himself well, connected cleanly with the ball and relied on his finishing instinct to place the shot accurately.
Mane added that finals are all about winning regardless of style and concluded that he is “happy to be playing my last AFCON final,” signalling a desire to retire from international duty before the next edition.
