Liverpool icon Sadio Mane was instrumental in helping Senegal defeat Morocco in the Africa Cup of Nations final
Sadio Mane lifted the AFCON trophy with his nation, Senegal(Image: AP)
Several Liverpool players have shown their support for club legend Sadio Mane following his country’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final triumph. The former Reds forward played a pivotal role as Senegal secured a dramatic 1–0 victory over Morocco in the controversial final.
The 33-year-old, playing for Al‑Nassr in Saudi Arabia, Mane produced five goal contributions throughout the tournament – two goals and three assists and featured in every match as Senegal claimed AFCON glory for only the second time in their history.
Mane marked the victory on Instagram, sharing a series of photos celebrating the remarkable achievement alongside the caption: “Alhamdoulilah. Thanks everyone,” followed by love heart and prayer emojis.
READ MORE: Dominik Szoboszlai confirms Liverpool contract talks but sends warning – ‘No decision’READ MORE: Liverpool name squad for Marseille trip as Mohamed Salah returns but Ibrahima Konate missing
The post received likes from Curtis Jones, Virgil van Dijk and Harvey Elliott, while Andy Robertson commented: “Legend.”
Meanwhile, former Reds midfielder Fabinho also replied, adding: “The best.”
Sunday’s final in Rabat descended into controversy when the hosts were awarded a penalty in the eighth minute of stoppage time, just moments after Senegal had what looked to be a legitimate goal ruled out with the match still goalless.
Real Madrid striker Brahim Diaz had the chance to win the tournament, but his Panenka penalty was saved by goalkeeper Edouard Mendy. Mane’s nation then went on to lift their second AFCON title thanks to a goal from Pape Gueye.
FOLLOW OUR LIVERPOOL FC FACEBOOK PAGE! All the latest news and analysis from Anfield on the Liverpool Echo’s dedicated LFC Facebook page
Despite the chaos, Mane had showcased his quality throughout the tournament.
Senegal manager Pape Thiaw ordered his players off the pitch, and play only resumed around 16 minutes later after Mane, who initially remained on the field before eventually heading to the dressing room, persuaded his team-mates to return and finish the match.
The winger insists he’s not finished yet at international level, confirming he will play at the World Cup this summer before retiring from international football.
Mane said: “I will try to play in the 2026 World Cup, and then I will retire from international football.
“The Saudi league is very competitive and very strong, people need to know that. It is one of the best leagues in the world.”
