Rabat – Senegal’s star forward Sadio Mané aims to cap off his illustrious international career with a second Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title when the Lions of Teranga face hosts Morocco in the final on Sunday. The match presents an opportunity for Mané to further solidify his legacy as one of Africa’s greatest footballers, potentially marking his final appearance in the tournament. Mané, 33, has been a pivotal figure for Senegal for over a decade, and a win would cement their status as a dominant force in African football.
The final, taking place in Rabat, pits Senegal against a determined Moroccan side eager to secure victory on home soil. Mané announced this AFCON final would be his last, adding emotional weight to the already high-stakes encounter. This comes as Senegal prepares for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, where they face challenging opponents in France and Norway.
Sadio Mané’s Pursuit of AFCON Glory
Mané’s international journey began in 2012, shortly after his 20th birthday, with a match against Morocco. He has since become Senegal’s all-time leading scorer and a symbol of national pride. His most significant achievement to date came in February 2022, when he led Senegal to their first-ever AFCON championship, defeating Egypt in a penalty shootout.
That 2022 victory was particularly meaningful for Mané, who admitted to previously feeling immense pressure to deliver for his nation. He explained in a recent interview that winning the AFCON alleviated that burden, allowing him to play with greater freedom. However, his path hasn’t been without setbacks, including a defeat in the 2019 final against Algeria and a missed 2022 World Cup due to injury.
A Generation’s Potential Swansong
The current Senegal squad, featuring experienced players like Mané, goalkeeper Edouard Mendy, captain Kalidou Koulibaly, and midfielder Idrissa Gana Gueye, may be approaching the end of a golden era. The 2026 World Cup is widely anticipated as a final opportunity for this generation to make a significant impact on the global stage.
Despite the potential for retirement from the national team, Senegal’s future appears bright with emerging talents like Everton’s Iliman Ndiaye and Paris Saint-Germain’s Ibrahim Mbaye. These younger players are stepping up and demonstrating their ability to contribute to the team’s success, offering hope for continued competitiveness.
Senegal’s coach, Pape Thiaw, who took over in late 2024, has praised Mané’s leadership and impact on the team. Thiaw expressed his hope that Mané will continue to play for Senegal beyond this AFCON tournament, recognizing his irreplaceable value. He also acknowledged the importance of nurturing the next generation of Senegalese footballers.
Throughout this year’s tournament, Mané has scored twice, including the decisive goal in the semi-final victory over Egypt. He has amassed a total of 11 goals in AFCON play, placing him among the tournament’s all-time leading scorers. This consistent performance underscores his importance to Senegal’s attacking prowess.
The upcoming match against Morocco will be a test of Senegal’s resilience and tactical flexibility. Morocco, bolstered by home advantage and a strong defensive record, will present a formidable challenge. The outcome of the final will not only determine the AFCON champion but also shape the narrative surrounding Mané’s international career.
Following the final, attention will turn to Senegal’s preparations for the 2026 World Cup. The team’s performance in the tournament will be closely scrutinized, and the emergence of new players will be crucial for their success. The future of several key veterans, including Mané, remains uncertain, leaving fans to speculate about the next chapter in Senegalese football.
