Senegal added another chapter to their story in African football after taking a dramatic 1-0 win in extra time against Morocco in the Afcon final. And while that win put Senegal firmly in the record books for African football, there is a much bigger story coming out of the match. The biggest news is that Senegal captain Sadio Mane said this was his final appearance in the Afcon. For me as a professional football writer who has followed Afcon for years, this means the curtain falls on an era of Senegal football and highlights the emergence of a new generation.
The game went to penalties in the early hours of yesterday morning Moscow time after Pape Gueye smashed home the winner for Senegal in the 100th minute of the game. What a roller coaster ride for everyone involved – and what a finish. There were many other moments of drama throughout the game including a 24-minute stoppage in the second half when Morocco player Brahim Diaz took a controversial panenka penalty kick. Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy had no trouble saving it however and kept his clean sheet intact.
Impact and Context of Senegal’s Victory
The drama reached its peak at the penalty decision which caused a huge reaction from the Senegalese players and coaches under the guidance of Pape Thiaw. The Senegalese players walked straight off the field toward the tunnel and were furious about the referee’s decision. It was Sadio Mane who showed the leadership qualities of a true captain by staying calm and rallying his teammates in the locker room to get them back onto the field. Not only did he make a difference on the field, but also in the emotional side of things. It was no surprise therefore, that he won the Player of the Tournament award as a fitting end to his Afcon career. Following the whistle, he told RMC Sport “My last Afcon? Yes I said so earlier, and I am saying it again today. My time is done here, if that is what god wants, then I will stop here. The young ones have the opportunity to pick up where we left off – I will be the 12th man supporting from the stands.”
Senegal are cemented as one of Africa’s top teams after winning two consecutive titles in four years. For Morocco, they continue to chase their first title since 1976 and it is clear that they still have a way to go.
Sadio Mané – independent.co.uk
Mane’s retirement comes at a difficult time. He has been the heartbeat of Senegal for years and has inspired young players from Dakar to Dakar. Now fans want to know who will fill the void. Will it be Pape Gueye or Jackson? Whatever the answer may be, Senegal have a strong team and will have to defend their title at the World Cup qualifiers and the 2025 Afcon finals.
Expectation and Outlook
Even without Mane, Senegal have shown they can compete on the world stage. For Morocco, they will take stock of their mistakes and try to build on their performance. They have ambitions to reach the world top ten and will be looking to bounce back. The Afcon final was not just a battle between Senegal and Morocco, it marked a turning point for Senegal. Fans will remember Mane’s key moments forever.
