AFCON 2023 : Sadio Mané speaks out candidly

In this 2023 AFCON, one team stands out: Senegal. As the technical leader of the “Lions of Teranga,” Sadio Mané discusses his team’s objectives.

Senegal, the defending champions and the only country to secure three consecutive victories in the group stage, is gearing up to face Ivory Coast, the host nation, in what promises to be an exciting match. Scheduled for Monday, January 29th, at 8:00 PM GMT, this showdown will take place at the Charles Konan Banny Stadium in Yamoussoukro, marking the start of the round of 16 of the 34th edition of the Africa Cup of Nations.

Sadio Mané : Focused on the Goal

After an exceptional performance in the group stage, where they dominated their opponents, the Senegalese Lions are already looking ahead to their next challenge. However, they know the challenge will be tough as they face Ivory Coast’s Elephants, ranked as the best third-placed team after one victory and two defeats.

The rising star of Senegalese football, Sadio Mané, displays unwavering determination approaching this crucial match. “We said from the beginning that we came here to try to win every game. We are aware that it won’t be easy, but that’s the goal for each of us,” he declares confidently. The player, who plays for Al Nassr, highlights his team’s current position, emphasizing the positive momentum Senegal has had in recent years. “We are in the best position, and every team dreams of being in our place. We are satisfied with our performances and will remain humble as we have always been,” he adds.

This encounter between Senegal and Ivory Coast promises an intense spectacle as two of the continent’s best teams vie for a spot in the quarter-finals. Supporters from both sides eagerly anticipate this showdown, which promises to be one of the highlights of this AFCON edition. However, “Nanthio” and his teammates remain very calm, despite the stakes.

Sadio Mané : Regained Confidence

As noted in an interview with RTS, Sadio Mané expresses tangible confidence in his team’s chances of winning the Africa Cup of Nations again. He emphasized the importance of the experience accumulated by several of his teammates, further strengthening the group. According to him, this collective maturity gives Senegal a definite advantage in the title race.

“When you’ve been in this profession for years, I think it’s normal to have experience. I think for this AFCON, we are even more experienced, so I think we know how to do it to win it again,” he said, highlighting the meticulous preparation and expertise gained over the years.

In this 2023 AFCON, Sadio Mané positions himself as a player serving the team, ready to do anything to contribute to its success. “I’m here for the team. I try to be decisive (to score or assist my teammates), and by doing that, it helps the team. The goal is to go all the way,” he confides.

The objective is clear for the Al-Nassr player: to once again lift the prestigious AFCON trophy. With such a team spirit and unwavering confidence, Senegal is certainly one of the teams to watch closely in this competition. Ivory Coast has been warned.