«As we are qualified, I am very happy to be able to play for my very last AFCON, a final with the Lions. I hope to win it and bring (the trophy) to Dakar,"
said Sadio Mané, after the semi-final against Egypt on Wednesday 14 January. Words that seemed to shock everyone present at the press conference including his coach Pape Thiaw. The latter, in a press conference before the final against Morocco on January 18, assures that he does not agree and that this decision does not belong to the player.
A response that might come across quickly, but which reflects the importance of Sadio Mané in Senegal. Beyond the 'simple' footballer, he is an icon. And this final against Morocco could be a legacy for future generations, but also for eternity.
Heritage
Already champion of Africa in 2022, Sadio Mané led the Lions to the first title in its history, in Cameroon. The consecration for a player who will play his 3rd final, whereas before him, Senegal had been finalist only once, in 2002. If he won a 2nd CAN, he would notably equal Samuel Eto'o, a legend in Cameroonian, African and world football, who has also been crowned twice (2000 and 2002).
Thus, the Senegalese could legitimately figure in the debate of the best African player in history, especially since his club career is just exceptional with notably a 2nd place at the Ballon d'or France Football in 2022, all possible collective titles won with Liverpool.
Go high in the hierarchy of African football
As an individual, Sadio Mané is the 5th best scorer in the history of the AFCON (11 goals), but above all the best passer in the history of the competition with 9 assists. With his 20 contributions, he is the most decisive player in the tournament in the 21st century. Author of 2 goals and 3 assists at the AFCON 2025 (top scorer and best passer of his team), he alone embodies Senegalese football.
As a result, winning the CAN 2025 and starting on this title would give much more than recognition to this player. It would be to write him a little more in gold letters in the history of Senegalese, African and world football. It would be a legacy for future generations who will not have had the chance to see it evolve.
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Philemon MBALE
Rédacteur sportif
Passionné de sport depuis toujours, partage avec vous les dernières actualités et analyses du monde sportif.