AFCON 2025 will mark the final Africa Cup of Nations appearance of Senegal icon Sadio Mané, bringing an end to one of the most influential international careers in African football history.
The 31-year-old forward is reportedly planning to retire from international football after the 2026 FIFA World Cup, a decision that confirms he will not feature at AFCON 2027, which will be hosted in Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.
Mané has been the face of Senegal’s golden era, playing a central role in their rise to continental dominance. His crowning moment came in 2021, when he led the Lions of Teranga to their first-ever AFCON title, scoring the decisive penalty in the final against Egypt.
Beyond trophies, Mané’s influence has stretched far beyond goals, setting standards of leadership, professionalism, and belief within the national team.
AFCON 2025 now takes on added significance for both Mané and Senegal, serving as a farewell tour for a player who has defined a generation. With one last continental campaign ahead, the tournament presents an opportunity for Mané to close the AFCON chapter of his career on a high note.
As Senegal prepare for life after their talisman, fans across Africa will savour every moment of Mané’s final AFCON — a fitting send-off for one of the continent’s greatest-ever footballers.
