Senegal superstar Sadio Mane has explained why he recalled his players who had walked off the pitch injury-time in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final against Morocco.
Mane showed incredible leadership after chaos erupted on the pitch, when referee Jean-Jacques Ngambo Ndala awarded Morocco a contentious 95th minute penalty.
After Senegal themselves had a goal ruled out in injury-time, parts of the Lions of Teranga squad decided to leave the pitch, with coach Pape Thiaw appearing to call them off.
However, Mane went into the dressing to recall his teammates, who eventually came back, before Edouard Mendy saved Brahim Diaz’s panenka penalty to force extra-time.
Just four minutes into extra-time Pape Gueye scored a screamer, which secured Senegal their their second AFCON title.
“African football deserved more than this, to end the game like this…” Mane said in the mixed zone when asked about the incident.
“African football is developing incredibly and the whole world is watching the football. I think it would be very bad and sad to send that image.
“That’s why, from my side I call my team to play. Lose as men, win as men. It’s what we did.
“In the end of the day we got lucky, and we win.”
Mane, who was voted AFCON Player of the Tournament, made his 124th appearance for Senegal and indicated it was his last match at the African showpiece.
“I would love to play again but this is my last time, I’m really sorry,” the 33-year-old stated.
“But I will be the 12th man to support them.”
