AFCON 2025: Mane equals Drogba record as most decisive African player

Sadio Mané etched his name even deeper into Africa Cup of Nations history alongside one of the continent’s greatest players.

Mane reached a new milestone as Senegal were held to a hard-fought 1–1 draw by DR Congo in a gripping Group D encounter in Tangier, a result that kept the group finely balanced heading into the final round of matches.

Mané’s equaliser against DR Congo was far more than just a crucial goal for the reigning champions. It took the Senegalese forward to 16 direct goal contributions in AFCON history, made up of 10 goals and six assists across 16 matches.

That return sees him draw level with Ivory Coast legend Didier Drogba, who recorded 11 goals and five assists in the same number of games, making both men the most decisive players at the tournament since 2006.

Earlier in the match, Mané had been at the heart of Senegal’s attacking play, delivering a pinpoint cross that Nicolas Jackson narrowly failed to convert and testing the Congolese defence with a dangerous free kick.

His influence remained constant even as Senegal struggled to turn dominance into goals, underlining why he continues to be the team’s talisman on the continental stage.

Senegal looked in control during a dominant first half but were left frustrated by missed chances, including a glaring opportunity for Ismaila Sarr from close range.

DR Congo emerged with renewed energy after the break and were rewarded on the hour when Cedric Bakambu capitalised on a rebound following Edouard Mendy’s save from Theo Bongonda.

The setback sparked a response from Senegal, with substitute Ibrahim Mbaye adding pace and urgency down the flank. His direct run led to chaos in the box, allowing Mané to react quickest and calmly slot home in the 68th minute to restore parity.

Both sides pushed for a winner, but the draw leaves Senegal top of Group D on four points, narrowly ahead of DR Congo on goal difference. With decisive fixtures against Benin and Botswana looming, the battle for progression remains wide open.