Senegal are set to take on Mali in one of the quarterfinal showdowns at the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, with Sadio Mane declaring his readiness for the encounter, SportPremi reports.
The Lions of Teranga have lived up to their expectations as tournament favourites so far at the 2025 AFCON, as they seek a second title win.
They finished as winners of Group D, recording seven points from their three matches, before dismantling Sudan 3-1 in their Round of 16 encounter.
- Read here: Mali vs Senegal preview and team news
Senegal have scored three goals in a single match in three of their four matches – the most of any team, while their tally of 10 goals is only behind Nigeria (12), for the mist goals so far at the tournament.
They face Mali, who are without a win in regular time, later today for a shot at a semifinal encounter against either Egypt or defending champions Ivory Coast.
Mane speaks ahead of Mali quarterfinal showdown
Sadio Mane has been one of Senegal’s star performers so far in Morocco and made history in their Round of 16 win over Sudan after providing two assists in that clash.
The former Liverpool winger became the player with the most assists in AFCON history, moving up to nine and surpassing Yaya Toure’s record of seven.
“At AFCON, there are always favourites, and we are one of them. But I always remind the boys to stay calm because this tournament is not always won by the best team. We have learned that from experience. In 2021, we didn’t play great in the group stage, but we won the trophy. Today, the most important thing is to win the game— it doesn’t matter how”, Mane revealed.
“Mali are one of the best teams in this tournament so far. They are strong, disciplined and very well organised. It will be a big battle. These are the games we dream of playing as footballers. We respect them a lot, and we know it will take a strong collective performance to win.”
On winning another AFCON title
“Winning with Senegal is the greatest achievement of my career. Nothing compares to success with your country. If we can do it again, it would mean everything — for me and for the people. It also sends a message to the youth: believe, work hard and never stop. That is the mentality of a champion”, the 33-year-old added.
“There is no shirt I am prouder to wear than Senegal’s. This badge means everything to me. I play with one mindset: when my career ends, I don’t want to have any regrets about what I gave to my country. That’s why I always try to give my best. Playing for Senegal is a mission, not just football.”
Mali and Senegal will face-off later today in a last eight encounter at the 2025 AFCON at the Grand Stade de Tanger in Tangier.
