Sadio Mané is gearing up for what he believes will be the most challenging Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) to date. Senegal finds itself in the formidable Group C, often dubbed the “group of death,” alongside Cameroon, Guinea, and Gambia.
In an interview with cafonline, Mané shared his insights into the upcoming competition, acknowledging the formidable line-up of major African nations participating in the Ivorian edition.
The 2023 AFCON is poised to be exceptionally competitive, with each participating country aiming for success.
“We know it won’t be easy, but we will be there to do our best and try to get through every round.
We expect tough competition. This competition will be one of the strongest since I played there because all the big countries are here, and they all have their goals, but we will see what happens,” commented Mané, the Al Nassr forward.
When questioned about the personal significance of winning the title consecutively, the 31-year-old football sensation expressed that securing another AFCON trophy would be a special achievement.
He emphasized that winning the AFCON was the most significant trophy in his illustrious career.
Returning to the grand stage represents a dream fulfilled since childhood.
“Firstly, winning the AFCON was the best trophy I have ever won in my life, and coming back to this stage will be special and a great achievement.
It’s been a dream to play in this competition since I was a child, and we will do our best.
Winning the AFCON will have a big impact for our football because we won all the other categories, which is great for the country,” concluded Mané.
Senegal embarks on its title defense against Gambia on Monday, January 15, with a subsequent crucial encounter against Cameroon’s Indomitable Lions three days later.
The football world eagerly awaits the unfolding drama and the determination of Sadio Mané and his compatriots on the grand stage of the AFCON 2023.
