• African football

Thiery Henry explains how Sadio Mane can win Africa’s second Ballon d’Or

Sadio Mane, Ballon d'Or
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The Senegalese star sees Karim Benzema ahead of him as the number one favourite to claim the prestigious prize.

Thiery Henry says Sadio Mane might edge out Karim Benzema in the Ballon d’Or race this year.

The Liverpool forward has spent a brilliant season at Anfield, playing an integral role in the Reds’ pursuit of the quadrupole.

In February, he captained Senegal to their first-ever Africa Cup of Nations triumph. Roughly a month later, the 30-year-old helped the Lions of Teranga qualify for the 2022 World Cup.

However, most observers still see Mane behind Karim Benzema in the Ballon d’Or race. The Real Madrid striker is spending the best season of his career, registering 43 goals and 14 assists across all competitions.

Henry admits Benzema has a better chance of winning the award but says Liverpool’s possible victory in the Champions League final could change the odds.

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“To make the final even bigger, the two favourites for the Ballon d’Or are Mane and Benzema,” Henry told CBS Sports“That will add an extra little spice into it.”

He added: “I still believe that Benzema is ahead, but if Mane wins [the Champions League] with Liverpool and they do make the quadruple, that is a pretty strong case.

“It would be great for Africa, but I’m still going for Benzema.”

Before facing Real Madrid in the UCL final, Liverpool must return to the Premier League, where they are one point away from the top of the table. 

Mane and co will face Tottenham this weekend, hoping Manchester City would drop points against Newcastle.

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