Senegal Hopes for AFCON Glory as Sadio Mané’s Future Hangs in Balance

Coach Pape Thiaw Urges Star Forward to Continue While Raising Security Concerns Ahead of Final

Senegal is preparing for a high-stakes clash against Morocco in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final, with national coach Pape Thiaw hoping that star forward Sadio Mané’s remarkable career at the tournament is not over. Mané, 33, hinted after scoring the decisive goal against Egypt in the semi-final that he might not feature in another AFCON, prompting a heartfelt plea from his coach and teammates.

Sadio Mané has been instrumental in Senegal’s recent football achievements. He helped lift the nation’s first-ever AFCON trophy in 2022 by scoring the winning penalty against Egypt and has participated in six editions of the tournament, including the 2019 final loss to Algeria. Defender Moussa Niakhate praised the veteran forward, saying, “Sadio is an exceptional player who would have deserved a Ballon d’Or. He has no ego, works hard, and loves his country. His sixth AFCON appearance reflects his longevity and consistency.”

Coach Thiaw echoed this sentiment, stating, “His decision is no longer up to him. There is a whole country behind him that wants to see him continue. I, as the national team coach, do not agree with his decision and we would like to keep him for as long as possible.” Mané may still retire from international football after the 2026 World Cup in North America, making this final potentially his last AFCON appearance.

Ahead of the final in Rabat, Senegal raised concerns over security and logistical arrangements. Thiaw criticized the welcome his team received, including inadequate hotel facilities, limited tickets for supporters, and a training pitch at the Moroccan team’s base.

He explained, “What happened yesterday was not normal. Given the number of people present, anything could have happened. My players could have been in danger. This should not happen between two brother countries.” These remarks highlight the tension between logistical issues and sporting excitement as Senegal prepares for one of the biggest matches in African football.

Morocco, playing on home soil, is seeking its first AFCON title in half a century. Coach Walid Regragui acknowledged the pressure of hosting but expressed confidence in his squad. “We dreamt of being here and now we are. The last step will be the hardest. Senegal are a great side, but it is fantastic for African football to have a final between the continent’s two best teams,” he said.

Regragui added, “The final is 50/50, but maybe it will be 51 percent in our favour with the crowd behind us.” With Africa’s top two FIFA-ranked teams facing off, fans can expect a thrilling contest full of passion, skill, and drama.