The forward overcame a concussion to help keep the Lions of Teranga’s hopes of a first Africa Cup of Nations title alive.
Sadio Mane has no worries about his evolving role, insisting he is prepared to do ‘all the sacrifices’ to ensure Senegal of victory.
Despite suffering a concussion from the last-16 win over Cape Verde, Mane recovered in time to help Aliou Cisse’s men book an AFCON semi-final spot by beating Equatorial Guinea 3-1 in Sunday’s quarter-final clash.
The Liverpool forward assisted Famara Diedhiou for the opening goal with an excellent pass, while also impressing in his all-round role – which saw him play in defense, midfield, and attack.
Sadio Mane 🇸🇳 speaks to @garyalsmith on
• The buzz in Senegal's dressing room
• His evolving role for the Lions
• Whether this game vs Equatorial Guinea was their best so far.#JoySports pic.twitter.com/QmFmd4VQY1— Joy Sports (@JoySportsGH) January 30, 2022
“It’s my job, I have to do it,” Mane told Joy Sports after the match.
“It’s really important for me [and] the boys to make sure we win the game. So by winning you have to do everything, all the sacrifices.”
On how the squad felt after the victory, he added: “Very proud, very happy.”
Substitute Cheikhou Kouyate volleyed in a second goal for Senegal past the hour-mark in Yaounde, after Jannick Buyla had equalized for Equatorial Guinea. Ismaila Sarr side-footed a late third to seal the win.
Mane and Senegal’s bid for a first AFCON title will continue on Wednesday when they take on Burkina Faso in the semi-finals in Japoma.
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