Senegal Star Mane Eyes Second Title in AFCON Farewell
Soccer legend Sadio Mane is playing his final Africa Cup of Nations tournament, hoping to lead Senegal to a second championship victory against Morocco in Sunday's final. The 33-year-old forward, who lifted the trophy in 2022, scored the winning goal in Wednesday's semifinal and wants to cement his legacy as one of Africa's greatest players.
A soccer legend is writing the final chapter of his tournament career, and he wants it to end with another trophy.
Sadio Mane announced that Sunday's Africa Cup of Nations final will be his last game in the tournament. The former Liverpool star scored the winning goal against Egypt in Wednesday's semifinal to set up a championship match against host nation Morocco in Rabat.
The 33-year-old forward has represented Senegal over 120 times since his debut in 2012. His crowning achievement came in February 2022 when he led the Lions of Teranga to their first-ever AFCON title with a penalty shootout victory over Egypt.
That win lifted an enormous burden from Mane's shoulders. "Before I won the Africa Cup, sometimes I played badly because of the pressure," he explained in a recent interview, noting that Senegalese fans prioritize their national team above everything else.
Mane has experienced both highs and lows with his country, including a heartbreaking final loss to Algeria in 2019 and missing the 2022 World Cup with injury. Now playing for Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr alongside Cristiano Ronaldo, he's ready to say goodbye to AFCON on his own terms.
His coach Pape Thiaw isn't ready to let go. "You don't find a player like him every day, and we need to make the most of him," Thiaw said after the Egypt victory.
Why This Inspires
Mane's journey represents the power of persistence and redemption. The two-time African footballer of the year has carried his nation's hopes for over a decade, handling immense pressure with grace while inspiring millions across the continent.
His decision to step away from AFCON shows wisdom and self-awareness. With young talents like Paris Saint-Germain teenager Ibrahim Mbaye emerging at this tournament, Mane is confident Senegal's attack will thrive beyond his tenure.
The World Cup still awaits in 2026, where Senegal faces France and Norway. But first, Mane wants to deliver one more magical moment for his country.
A second title in three tournaments would confirm Senegal as a modern African soccer powerhouse and seal Mane's legacy among the continent's all-time greats. Sunday in Rabat offers the perfect stage for his farewell bow.
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Based on reporting by Guardian Nigeria
This story was written by BrightWire based on verified news reports.
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