Sadio Mane gave an explanation for his decision to remain on the field while his Senegal teammates left during a tumultuous conclusion to the Africa Cup of Nations final against Morocco.
Senegal defeated Morocco 1-0 in the final at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat on Sunday night to win their second AFCON championship.
The game-winning goal was scored by Villarreal midfielder Pape Alassane Gueye in the 94th minute.
However, regulation time ended in chaos prior to Gueye’s winner during extra time.
See Also: Morocco Explain Shocking Diaz Penalty Miss In AFCON Final Defeat
Referee Jean-Jacques Ndala was told to assess a challenge on Brahim Diaz by El Hadji Malick Diouf, and Morocco was given a penalty.
Senegal manager Pape Thiaw sensationally told his team to leave the pitch and head back to the dressing room because he disagreed with the decision.
Mane seems to convince his colleagues to come back after a wait of over 15 minutes.
Diaz went up to take the penalty and tried a cheeky Panenka, but it backfired as Senegalese goalkeeper Edouard Mendy stopped the ball with ease.
Mane stayed on the field while his Senegalese teammates went back to the changing room during the protracted wait.
What Mane Said After Full Time
The former Liverpool and Bayern Munich player gave an explanation of why he chose to stay in a post-match speech.
As per the BBC, Mane said: “Football is something special, 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.”
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