Mane: "We Know How to Play Finals and Must Win Them, Regardless of the Style"

Senegal star Sadio Mane expressed his immense joy after his national team defeated Egypt 1-0 to qualify for the final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

In a press statement following the match, Mane said: "We knew from the start that the match would be difficult, and we were well aware of the Egyptian national team's strengths."

He added: "We tried to leverage our previous and accumulated experience in such tournaments. We succeeded in preventing them from creating genuine scoring opportunities. We maintained good possession in midfield and closely marked both Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush."

Mane continued: "We knew how to find the right balance between attack, defense, and midfield, and this success is the result of the efforts of all the players."

He further stated: "I got my chance and seized it. I reached the ball well, positioned myself correctly, and used my scoring instinct. It was a well-placed shot."

Mane concluded: "We know how to play in finals, and as I said before, a final is a match you must win, regardless of the playing style. I will strive hard to capitalize on any opportunity presented to me to honor my country and secure the title."

Senegal will face the winner of the match between Morocco and Nigeria in the final. That semi-final is scheduled for today, Wednesday, at 21:00 GMT+1. The final will take place next Sunday at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.