AFCON 2025: Edouard Mendy, the hidden hands behind Senegal

A consistency that reassures
The AFCON 2025 reminds us how much Edouard Mendy is a model of reliability. Considered one of the best goalkeepers on the continent, the native of Montivilliers wins match after match thanks to his placement, his authority in the area and his ability to deliver decisive saves in the high points.

In a team from Senegal that no longer offers the same defensive solidity as at the time of Aliou Cissé, Mendy fills many imbalances.

A more exposed Senegal, a more solicited Mendy
Under the orders of Pape Thiaw, the Lions display a more forward-looking philosophy. Result: more spaces conceded, a defensive line sometimes undermined, and a goalkeeper much more solicited.

In this context, Edouard Mendy appears as the major actor of the Senegalese campaign. His serenity contrasts with the defensive mistakes observed since the beginning of the competition.

Numbers that speak
The statistics confirm the excellent CAN of the Senegalese goalkeeper.

• 83.3% saves, best total in the tournament, ahead of Lionel Mpasi and Lucas Zidane.
• 3 clean sheets in 5 matches, second best total, behind Yassine Bounou (4).
• 2.10 goals avoided, again second in the standings, just behind Lucas Zidane (2.30).

Decisive saves at key moments
Beyond the numbers, it is above all his decisive interventions that mark minds. Facing the DRC, he makes a reflex stop on a strike by Théo Bongonda. Against Sudan, he brilliantly intervenes in front of Eisa. In the quarter-finals against Mali, he deploys twice on clear opportunities to keep Senegal afloat. As many actions that weigh heavily in the journey of the Lions.

The perfume of 2021 before Egypt
A day before the semi-final against Egypt, Edouard Mendy reflects the image of the goalkeeper who carried Senegal to their first continental title in 2021. Decisive on his line, vocal leader capable of haranguing his defense, he embodies this experience and composure essential in big and decisive games.
If the Lions aim to go to the end, they know that they can rely on a last wall in full mastery of its art, Mendy.