AFCON 2025 final: Former Man City player pays tribute to Sadio Mané | OneFootball

Trabelsi hails Sadio Mané's leadership in the AFCON 2025 final

Sadio Mane / @x.com/ballonrondfc/

Former Manchester City and Ajax Amsterdam defender Hatem Trabelsi made a point of praising the performance and exemplary attitude of Sadio Mané, Senegalese international and Al-Nassr player, for his decisive role in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final against Morocco.

The match was marked by intense scenes and an especially chaotic atmosphere after a penalty was awarded to Morocco following a VAR review. The decision triggered strong protests from the Senegalese side, leading to a temporary suspension of play.

It was at this moment that Sadio Mané stood out for his composure and sense of responsibility, calling his teammates back onto the pitch and allowing the game to resume in a calmer environment.

Upon the restart, Ibrahim Diaz missed the Moroccan penalty, which was brilliantly saved by goalkeeper Édouard Mendy. Just minutes later, Pape Gueye sealed the final's fate with a powerful strike, delivering Senegal their second continental crown.

Trabelsi hails Sadio Mané's leadership in the AFCON 2025 final

In a post shared on his official page, the former Tunisian international highlighted the significance of Mané's gesture, believing it helped avoid a scenario that could have tarnished the image of African football.

"Sadio Mané has a truly exemplary sporting spirit. He played a key role in preventing an unfortunate incident during the Africa Cup of Nations final, thus helping preserve the credibility of African football," Trabelsi wrote.

He added: "Beyond this episode, Mané possesses exceptional qualities. His track record in both Europe and Africa speaks for itself, and he continues to deliver solid performances in the Saudi league today."