I hope Sadio Mane wins another African Footballer of the Year award – Samuel Eto’o

Mané played a pivotal role in Senegal’s historic second Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) triumph, guiding the Lions of Teranga to victory over hosts and tournament favourites Morocco on Sunday at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium.

The Al Nassr forward showcased his leadership in a tense moment when his teammates threatened to walk off the pitch following a controversial late penalty awarded to Morocco after Brahim Diaz was fouled in the 18-yard box. Mané persuaded his teammates to return after an 18-minute standoff, ensuring play resumed.

Speaking to FRANCE24, Eto’o, a former AFCON and African Player of the Year winner, lauded Mané’s influence both on and off the field.

“Sadio Mané not only contributed to winning the tournament but also to saving the image of the national team, because leaving the pitch would have had very serious consequences for Senegal,” he said.

“Sadio is one of the greatest heroes of our continent, and I send him special respect for his morals and leadership qualities. I am honoured to consider him a friend, and his role in leading his teammates to victory was exceptional.

“I hope he achieves another African Footballer Of The Year because what he did, especially his behaviour yesterday, is the act of a great leader,” Eto’o added.

The decisive moment came in extra time when Pape Gueye scored the match’s only goal, following a saved panenka attempt from Brahim Diaz.

With this victory, Mané joins an elite group of African players who have lifted the AFCON trophy twice, cementing his legacy as one of the continent’s greats.

Source:Fiilasports/ghanasoccernet