AFCON 2023 Will Be Toughest Yet, Winning Again Would Be Special, Says Mane

Senegal’s captain and talisman, Sadio Mane, anticipates that the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Cote d’Ivoire 2023 will be the toughest edition to date.

Mane shared his thoughts with CAFOnline, emphasizing the challenging nature of the competition, especially given Senegal’s placement in what many consider the “group of death” alongside Cameroon, Guinea, and The Gambia in Group C.

Acknowledging the formidable line-up of big African nations in the tournament, Mane expressed the team’s awareness of the difficulty they face. Despite the tough competition, he affirmed Senegal’s commitment to giving their best and progressing through each round.

Mane noted that this AFCON would be one of the strongest since he started participating, with all major African countries present and determined to perform well.

When asked about the personal significance of lifting the title consecutively, Mane, a 31-year-old star, described winning the AFCON as the best trophy of his career. Repeating this achievement would be special and a significant accomplishment for him.

He emphasized the importance of the AFCON trophy, expressing his childhood dream of participating in the competition.

The AFCON kicks off on January 13, and Senegal initiates their title defense against The Gambia on January 15. Subsequently, they face Cameroon on January 18 and conclude their Group C campaign against Guinea on January 23.

All of Senegal’s matches will take place at the Stade Charles Konan Banny Stadium in Yamoussoukro, which will also host Round of 16 and quarter-final matches.

Source: Agencies