Sadio Mane's future with the Senegalese national team is uncertain as they prepare to face Morocco in the Africa Cup of Nations final, with coach Pape Thiaw expressing hope that this will not be the 33-year-old forward's last appearance in the tournament. Thiaw conveyed his sentiment to reporters in Rabat, emphasizing the widespread desire for Mane to continue representing Senegal, particularly after his pivotal role in securing their place in the final with a winning goal against Egypt in the semi-final, a 1-0 victory.
Mane's post-match comments after the semi-final hinted at a potential retirement from international football, stating he would not participate in another AFCON. However, Thiaw suggested that Mane's decision might be influenced by the collective will of the Senegalese people. "His decision is no longer up to him. There is a whole people behind him, too, and they would like to see him continue," Thiaw stated, highlighting the significance of Mane's contribution to the national team.
Senegal's journey to the final saw them overcome a challenging group stage and tough knockout matches, showcasing Mane's continued importance to the team's success. His performance echoes his influential role in Senegal's previous AFCON triumph, where they defeated Egypt in a penalty shootout, marking their first-ever title in the competition.
The final against Morocco presents a significant challenge, with the host nation looking to capitalize on home advantage. The game is not just a battle for the title but also a potential turning point in Mane's international career. The outcome of the match and the subsequent celebrations or reflections could play a crucial role in his final decision.
As Senegal prepares for the final, the focus remains on both the immediate goal of winning the AFCON title and the long-term future of their star player. The nation awaits Mane's final decision, hoping he will continue to lead the team in future tournaments, adding to his legacy as one of Senegal's greatest footballing icons.
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