L-R: Sadio Mane, Pape Gueye and Edouard Mendy played pivotal role in Senegal’s AFCON triumph
Several key players distinguished themselves as Senegal made history by winning their second Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title after beating host nation Morocco 1-0 on Sunday, January 18, 2025.
Senegal have now won their second Africa Cup of Nations trophy, having previously lost in the 2002 and 2019 finals to the Indomitable Lions of Cameroon and the Desert Foxes of Algeria, respectively.
Although all the players gave their best from the goalkeeping department to the attack, three stood out throughout the tournament.
Senegal defeat hosts Morocco to win 2025 AFCON
This article puts the spotlight on the three Senegalese players who excelled:
Sadio Mané
The Al Nassr forward’s brilliant performances earned him the overall best player award at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations hosted in Morocco.
The legendary footballer netted two goals and provided 3 assists in seven games to help his country in the tournament.
His second goal in the tournament helped the Teranga Lions ease past Egypt in the semi-final, and he was influential in the final by constantly threatening the Moroccan defense.
The standout moment came when Morocco were awarded a spot-kick. Furious with the decision, the Senegalese players attempted to boycott the match by staging a walk-off, but Sadio Mané intervened and convinced his teammates to return to the field, an act that ultimately helped them secure the trophy.
“The world was watching, so we have to give a good image for football. I think it would be crazy to not play this game because what, the referee gave a penalty and we go out of the game? I think that would be the worst thing, especially in African football. I’d rather lose than this kind of thing happen to our football,” he told the media after the game.
Édouard Mendy
Mendy proved himself as the safest hands for the Teranga Lions, playing a crucial role in their AFCON triumph.
Statistically, he recorded:
83.3% saves — the best in the tournament, ahead of Lionel Mpasi and Lucas Zidane
3 clean sheets in 5 matches — second-best total, behind Yassine Bounou (4)
2.10 goals avoided — second in the standings, just behind Lucas Zidane (2.30)
Pape Gueye
Gueye’s brilliance in deciding the game with a stunning shot earned him the Man of the Match accolade following his excellent performance.
The Villareal midfielder was exceptional in midfield, provided solid defensive cover, created opportunities in tight spaces, and controlled the tempo of the game.
The 27-year-old established himself as a formidable defensive midfielder, highly rated among the best in his position in the tournament.
SB/JE
Meanwhile, watch as Ghanaians celebrate Senegal’s AFCON triumph
