He is one of Africa’s greatest footballers. His talent is unquestionable, his skill is sublime, and to top it all, he is steeped in humility. He is Sadio Mané, the legend from Senegal. The winner of the Africa Cup of Nations twice over. The second is the latest AFCON in Morocco.
Adjudged, the Player of the Tournament, Mané, guided Senegal to a great victory over hosts Morocco in the final at Rabat and right through the tournament shone as a beacon of hope for the Lions of Teranga.
Mané, however, rose above his stature as a great player and showed to the world his humane and responsible side too, both during the tournament and in the final.
After winning the semi-finals against Egypt, Mané, who had scored a breathtaking goal to take Senegal to the finals, was seen appealing and guiding his teammates to keep themselves grounded and not to break into vociferous celebrations. The big thing was winning the trophy and he emphasised that in no uncertain terms.
The Final saw unprecedented scenes unfold on the pitch. Senegal had a goal disallowed, which met with protests from the players and the coaching staff in the dugout. This was followed by a penalty awarded to Morocco in the dying minutes of normal time. The protests from Senegal surged, and led by their Manager Pape Thiaw, the players staged a walkout.
The players leaving the pitch was a serious matter. A decision had been taken, and the players had to abide by it. But a protest of this sort could have only tarnished Africa’s image.
Mané, sensing trouble, went into the tunnel and brought his team back to finish the game, displaying great leadership and sensibility in those tense moments. He told his teammates to fight it out like men on the pitch and not to disrespect the officials and the game.
Brahim Diaz missed the penalty. Pape Gueye scored an incredible goal in extra time and Senegal became Champions.
Sadio Mané won great respect across the world, in ensuring that the final was completed and that Africa was saved the blushes.
As per Rio Ferdinand, Sadio Mané not only saved the AFCON, but also saved African Football, and that he always liked him, but now loved him for all that he did for his team, country and continent.
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