‘I didn’t understand that decision’ - Mané reveals he was shocked by his teammates leaving the pitch

The game descended into turmoil when Morocco was awarded a contentious penalty in the 98th minute, just moments after Senegal had a potential 92nd-minute winner ruled out. 

The penalty was given after El Hadji Malick Diouf was deemed to have fouled Brahim Diaz, sparking outrage from the Senegalese bench and players.

The Senegal squad headed for the dressing rooms following a series of controversial refereeing decisions in the final minutes of the match against Morocco in Rabat.

As the team began to leave the pitch, a ten-minute delay ensued. Video footage captured Mané on the field, urging his teammates to come back from the tunnel and resume play.

Speaking after the match, Mané explained that he disagreed with the decision to abandon the game. "It was me who convinced the team to return to the pitch," he stated.

"The players and the coach had decided to withdraw, and I didn’t understand that decision. Mané elaborated on his reasoning, emphasising the importance of sportsmanship and the global audience watching. 

"The team told me they had decided to leave the field and not play, but I was there... and decided to bring everyone back onto the pitch," he said. 

“It would have been a shame... Just imagine a second, going into the locker rooms and the football match stopping there. I think that would convey a negative image of our football. I think Africa today does not deserve that."