AFCON 2021: Mane happy to take sacrifices for Senegal

Forward Sadio Mane claims that he is happy to make sacrifices and be more defensive if it helps Senegal at the Africa Cup of Nations.

Mane played a key role in the Teranga Lions’ 3-1 win over Equatorial Guinea in Sunday’s Nations Cup quarter-final to set up a last-four game against Burkina Faso.

As well as setting up the opening goal for Famara Diedhiou, Mane appeared all over the pitch to help Senegal put in their best performance of the finals so far.

“It’s my job to be ready to play everywhere. I have to do it because I think it’s really important for me,” Mane said.

“It’s important for the boys to make sure we win the game, so to win you have to do everything and make all the sacrifices necessary.”

Many saw Sunday’s performance as Senegal’s best yet in Cameroon, but Mane was keen to point out all their results at the tournament have been important.

“I think all the games, for me, are the best. Of course I know people always look for nice football, try to create chances and score and that’s normal.”

“But as a football player you can’t expect this all the time. Doing this without winning makes no sense,” he added.

Senegal finished runners-up at the last Nations Cup in 2019, and Mane admits the West Africans have to continue improving if they are to reach a second consecutive final.

“We have enough time to prepare, see the videos and improve because it’s important,” he explained.

Meanwhile, Senegal Football Federation president Augustin Senghor has challenged his team to go out and lift the Nations Cup trophy.