Senegal forward Sadio Mane has revealed how he persuaded his teammates to stay on the field during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final against Morocco, averting what could have been a major boycott.
The Teranga Lions briefly left the pitch after Morocco were awarded a late penalty following a VAR review, when Brahim Diaz was brought down in the box.
Despite coach Pape Thiaw urging the team to abandon the match, Mane convinced his squad to return and continue.
Play resumed, and Diaz’s panenka was saved by Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy, keeping the score at 0-0 after 90 minutes.
In extra time, Pape Gueye produced a stunning strike to secure a 1-0 victory for Senegal, clinching the nation’s second AFCON title.
Speaking after the game, Mane—who was named the tournament’s Best Player—said he feared the consequences of walking off.
“Just imagine going into the locker rooms and the football match stopping there. I think that would convey a negative image of our football. Africa today does not deserve that,” he said.
“African football has evolved in an incredible way, and the proof is that it is followed all over the world. So, on my side, I did what I had to do,” he added.
With the triumph, Mane joins a select group of players who have won the AFCON title twice.
