Can We Say It? "Mané" Speaks Candidly About "Salah" After Senegal Defeats Egypt to Reach AFCON 2025 Final
On 15 January 2026, Sadio Mané, the Senegal national team forward, gave an interview after becoming the hero who led Senegal to a 1-0 victory over Egypt, securing a place in the final of the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 held in Morocco.
In this match, Sadio Mané scored the decisive goal with a precise shot from just outside the penalty area, the ball curling into the near post in the 78th minute, giving Senegal a chance to win their second title and dashing the hopes of Mohamed Salah, his former Liverpool teammate, who has yet to win this tournament in his career.
Furthermore, Mané’s goal prolonged Egypt’s wait for a continental championship, having last won in 2010, 16 years ago. This also marked Senegal’s revenge once again, after Mané was the final penalty taker who helped Senegal beat Egypt 4-2 in the 2021 final.
Regarding Mohamed Salah, who still has not unlocked the Africa Cup of Nations title—the only major trophy missing from his career—Sadio Mané said, "It’s not easy for him, but I wish him luck."
"He did everything to bring his team this far. Unfortunately, one side had to lose. I’m happy to have reached the final."
Senegal will face Morocco in the AFCON 2025 final on Sunday, 18 January, while Egypt will compete against Nigeria for third place on Saturday, 17 January.