Sadio Mané reveals behind-the-scenes talks that brought Senegal back on the pitch

Sadio Mané has revealed he never fully agreed with Senegal’s decision to leave the pitch during the tense closing stages of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final, explaining how advice from respected figures persuaded him to bring his teammates back and allow the match to continue.

Speaking during the victory parade in Dakar following Senegal’s dramatic extra-time win over hosts Morocco, the national team captain reflected on the incidents that threatened to overshadow the final in Rabat.

Senegal went on to claim the trophy with a 1-0 victory after extra time, but the match was briefly halted when players protested a refereeing decision late in normal time.

As celebrations filled the Senegalese capital on Tuesday, Mané used the moment to recount how events unfolded at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium.

While much of the squad followed head coach Pape Thiaw in leaving the field, Mané remained on the pitch and sought counsel from senior figures watching from the sidelines.

In an interview with RTS, the 33-year-old explained that his instinct from the outset was to continue playing, even as emotions ran high.

He said guidance from former Senegal stars El Hadji Diouf and Mamadou Niang, as well as veteran coach Claude Le Roy, proved decisive.

“Following the incidents in the final, he told me: ‘Sadio, go and play.’ Mamadou Niang told me the same thing. I thank them, as well as Claude Le Roy.

I felt I needed to seek advice from experienced people. Because from the beginning, I wasn’t convinced I should leave the field. I trusted their advice.

In the end, I didn’t hesitate and I put everything in God’s hands.”

Mané’s intervention helped calm the situation, with Senegal returning to the pitch after a delay and the final eventually resuming.

The decision proved pivotal. Morocco were awarded a penalty shortly afterwards, but goalkeeper Edouard Mendy saved Brahim Diaz’s effort, keeping Senegal level.

With the contest stretching into extra time, it was Pape Gueye who delivered the decisive moment, scoring in the 94th minute to secure Senegal’s second Africa Cup of Nations title.

Mané was later named Player of the Tournament, recognition that underlined his influence both on and off the pitch.

Reflecting on the episode amid the celebrations, Mané’s account offered a glimpse into the leadership decisions made under extreme pressure.

His words highlighted a belief that, regardless of controversy, the integrity of the game and the image of African football had to be protected until the final whistle.

Les mots forts de Sadio Mane à l’endroit de El Hadji Ousseynou Diouf: ” On doit lui donner toute la place qu’il mérite..”#13football #13TV pic.twitter.com/ZLMlmLnAI8

— 13football_com (@13footballC) January 20, 2026