Senegal Win AFCON After Mane Stops Walk-Off Drama
Sadio Mane’s leadership proved decisive as Senegal clinched their second Africa Cup of Nations title in a dramatic 1-0 victory over hosts Morocco. The final threatened to descend into chaos after a controversial penalty sparked a walk-off by several Senegal players, but Mane convinced his teammates to return and finish the match, paving the way for Pape Gueye’s 94th-minute winner.
The tension boiled over when referee awarded a soft penalty for a supposed foul on Brahim Diaz. Some Senegal players and staff, led by head coach Pape Thiaw, briefly left the pitch in protest. Mane stayed behind, engaging with officials and calling his teammates back to continue play. His decision was validated when Diaz’s Panenka attempt was saved by Edouard Mendy, leaving Gueye’s late strike as the match-winner.
Senegal captain Mane later explained his choice to remain on the field. He emphasized the importance of respecting the game despite frustration over refereeing decisions. Mane told reporters that football is about setting an example and that abandoning the match would have damaged African football’s image. Thiaw also acknowledged his initial reaction, apologizing for instructing players to leave and praising Mane for stabilizing the team.
This victory adds to Mane’s illustrious international career, cementing Senegal’s place among Africa’s elite. It also comes at a critical moment, as the team prepares for the 2026 World Cup. Mane, however, confirmed that this AFCON will be his last, though Thiaw expressed hope the striker could be persuaded to extend his international career. Senegal now look ahead to a challenging Group I, facing France, Erling Haaland’s Norway, and the winner of an inter-confederation playoff.
The match itself opened with high intensity, Morocco pressing aggressively in front of a partisan crowd. Senegal absorbed pressure and relied on Mane, Gueye, and Mendy to maintain composure. Early chances fell to Morocco, but Senegal’s defense and Mendy’s shot-stopping kept the game level.
Key incidents included the controversial penalty that temporarily halted proceedings and several moments of individual brilliance from Mane and Gueye. Mendy’s crucial save from Diaz’s Panenka ensured the match remained in Senegal’s hands.
Gueye’s late goal came from a well-worked move, finishing decisively in the 94th minute after Senegal had weathered sustained Moroccan pressure. The strike sparked celebrations among players and fans alike, capping a tense, dramatic final.
In the second half, Senegal weathered Morocco’s tactical adjustments and near misses, holding firm despite mounting pressure. Mane’s leadership kept players focused, preventing further disruptions.
The closing stages were fraught with tension, but Senegal’s discipline and composure under Mane’s guidance carried them through. Gueye’s winner ensured the trophy returned to Dakar and highlighted Senegal’s resilience.
With this triumph, Senegal not only secure continental glory but also send a message ahead of the World Cup. Mane’s influence both on and off the pitch has been pivotal, reinforcing his status as one of Africa’s greatest players.