Strong collectively and inspired offensively, Senegal built its continental triumph on a powerful and consistent attack. With 13 goals scored throughout the competition and decisive attackers in every match, the Lions showcased their offensive superiority during this Africa Cup of Nations, which they controlled from start to finish.
Finding the back of the net in every match, Senegal displayed one of the tournament’s most prolific attacks. This efficiency stems from both a deep bench and the leadership of an ever-present Sadio Mané, the true orchestrator of the offensive play.
Sadio Mané, the engine and offensive leader
Having a top-level AFCON, the Senegalese number 10 played 7 matches (646 minutes) with a tally of 2 goals, 3 assists, and 15 chances created. Consistent, influential in play, and decisive in key moments, the former Liverpool and Bayern Munich player was rightly named Best Player of the Tournament.
A widely shared offensive contribution
Alongside Mané, several attackers contributed to the success. Nicolas Jackson, used five times (386 minutes), shone with 2 goals, an assist, and 8 chances created, confirming his effectiveness in front of goal.
In a more direct role, Chérif Ndiaye impressed with his realism. In just 65 minutes over five appearances, the Samsunspor striker scored 2 goals, showcasing a deadly efficiency.
Highly anticipated, Iliman Ndiaye delivered. Starting six times (440 minutesEverton player stood out with his technical quality, achieving 10 successful dribbles, 92.6% pass completion, and one goal.
Meanwhile, Ismaïla Sarr, less statistically decisive, was invaluable in off-the-ball work: 5 matches (269 minutes), 100% successful tackles, and one assist, symbols of his collective commitment.
Decisive contributions from the bench
From the bench, other attackers also made their mark. Habib Diallo, in 3 matches (160 minutes), scored a goal against Benin. Boulaye Dia, limited to 37 minutes, achieved 100% successful passes in the opponent’s half, showcasing his technical precision.
Despite limited playing time (6 minutes in 2 matchesCheikh Tidiane Sabaly was decisive, providing an assist to Chérif Ndiaye.
Ibrahim Mbaye, the offensive revelation
The true offensive revelation of this AFCON is Ibrahim Mbaye. Coming off the bench six times (168 minutesPSG player scored one goal, won a penalty, and initiated the action leading to Sadio Mané‘s goal against DR Congo. A promising performance for this young talent.
It’s worth noting that among the nine attackers called up by Pape Thiaw, Ousseynou Niang is the only one who did not play a single minute.
In the end, this AFCON confirmed an obvious truth: thanks to a varied, complementary, and decisive attack, Senegal managed to make the difference and rise to the top of Africa. This offensive strength will remain one of the key markers of this continental triumph.
