Sadio Mane says he reassured Mohamed Salah he remains a ‘very great player’ and still had plenty to win in his career after Senegal beat Egypt to win the Africa Cup of Nations.
Sunday’s final got off to a nightmare start for Mane, as he had a seventh-minute penalty saved by an inspired Gabaski at the Olembe Stadium in Yaounde, Cameroon.
Neither team were able to find the breakthrough after 120 minutes of action and the clash had to be settled via a penalty shootout, with Egypt looking to secure the trophy for a record eighth time.
But Senegal prevailed as Mane slotted home the decisive effort from 12 yards to make amends for his earlier miss the game, sparking wild scenes among Aliou Cisse’s triumphant squad.
It was a moment of history for Senegal because they had never before been crowned champions of Africa and Mane was named the player of the tournament to cap off a dream night for the Liverpool star.
There were touching scenes after the final whistle as Mane made sure to go over and console a teary Salah and the Senegalese attacker has revealed exactly what he said to his club team-mate.
‘I told him that he remains a very great player and it’s a pleasure to play for the same club,’ Mane told beIN SPORTS.
‘I have so much respect for him and he gave everything for his country. ‘Unfortunately, he didn’t win, but that doesn’t mean it’s over for him.
‘I also told him that he still has many things to win, including the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. They have a young team so maybe they will win it one day.’
Meanwhile, Mane thanked his Senegal team-mates for the support they offered him after his penalty miss in Yaounde.
‘When I missed the first penalty, it was a big blow for me,’ the former Southampton forward added.
‘But my team-mates came to me and said, “Sadio, we lose together and we win together. We know you. You have done too much for us – keep on going”.
‘That made me stronger and I think it made the difference when I got the second one. ‘All the boys came to me and said, “Sadio, we trust you”, and that gave me more motivation.
‘The trophy belongs to the whole Senegal team – everyone deserves it.’
Mane went on to describe the ‘special’ experience as the best day of his life. He said: ‘It’s the best day of my life and the best trophy of my life,’ he continued.
‘I won the Champions League and some [other] trophies but this is the special one for me. This is more important for me. ‘I am happy for myself, my people and all of my family.’
