Former Liverpool forward, Sadio Mané was named Man of the Competition after helping Senegal win 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Softfootball reports.
Senegal beat host Morocco 1-0 after extra time to win the competition but the match was without drama. Just before the end of 90 minutes, the Terenga Lions thought they’ve won the game but their goal was ruled out for a foul on Hakimi during the buildup.
Morocco has a penalty after Ibrahim Diaz was fouled but Senegalese players protested and encouraged to walk off the pitch by the Coach in a dramatic scene filled with chaos but common sense prevailed as Mane called out to his teammates to return. The game continued as Diaz missed his penalty courtesy a save by Mendy.
Sadio Mane led from the front and CAF recognised him with the biggest award of the entire tournament as they shared via their official X handle. They posted:
For his nation. Again and again. 🌟 Sadio Mané. TotalEnergies Man of the Competition.
Senegal midfielder, Pape Gueye was awarded the Man-of-the-Match after his bullet of a shot gave Senegal the win at extra time. It was a great celebration after the final whistle sounded from the referee.
During the trophy presentation Senegal captains Idrissa Gueye and Kalidou Koulibaly, who missed the final due to suspension, agreed that Mane should be the one to lift the trophy in an unbelievable show of respect and loyalty.
Here is a video of Mane lifting the AFCON trophy as posted by CAF via their official X handle. Watch below.
They lifted their hero. He lifted the trophy. Senegal’s dream, led by Mané. 🇸🇳❤️#TotalEnergiesAFCON2025 pic.twitter.com/dulw6TCEY3
— TotalEnergies AFCON 2025 (@CAF_Online) January 18, 2026Mane lifted the AFCON trophy to a large roar from Senegalese fans still at the stadium and the ones at home but more importantly to all football lovers from across the global that watched the match and enjoyed every bit of what they saw as they witnessed the Terenga Lions win their second AFCON title.
