Senegal finally crowned kings of Africa
Mane the shootout hero as Teranga Lions beat Egypt to win first AFCON title
Senegal have won the Africa Cup of Nations for the first time in their history after beating Egypt on penalties in Sunday’s final.
Sadio Mane, who had missed a penalty early in normal time, scored the decisive spot-kick as Senegal triumphed 4-2 in the shootout after 120 minutes of football failed to produce a goal.
This victory crowns an entire tournament for Mané’s teammates. Starting in the 4th minute, Mohamed Abou Gabal, the Egyptian goalkeeper, made a save. This missed penalty did not get the fingers of the Senegalese burnt. Despite a 57% ball possession Senegalese faced a phenomenal Egyptian goalkeeper.
Tied 0-0 by the end of the second half, the two teams had to come back on the pitch. During extra-time goal-scoring chances on both sides didn’t turned into actual goals.
The penalty shoot-out eventually settled the squads. With two miss from the penalty spot, Egypt lost to the Senegal.
Sadio Mané and his team offer the 16 million Senegalese their very first African Cup of Nations title.