BREAKING Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane incident sparks heated scenes and suspension from AFCON final

Mohamed Salah, Liverpool, Mané, AFCON: Heated Rivalry Renewed

Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mané, former Liverpool teammates, are set to clash in the AFCON semifinal between Egypt and Senegal, reigniting their intense rivalry marked by mutual respect amid high-stakes encounters[1][3].

The duo's history is steeped in drama. In the 2021 AFCON final, Mané delivered the decisive penalty, securing Senegal's first title and dashing Salah's dreams as Egypt fell short in the shootout at Stade d'Olembe[1][2]. Salah, yet to take his kick, watched helplessly, later missing in a World Cup qualifier where Mané again converted the winner amid distractions like lasers[1]. Senegal also triumphed in 2014 qualifiers[1].

Club tensions peaked during Liverpool's 3-0 win at Burnley in 2019, when Mané furiously confronted Salah for not passing, requiring physical restraint post-substitution. Jürgen Klopp called it "just football," but it highlighted growing frustration with Salah's individualism[1][2]. Post-match, Salah explained he didn't see Mané, emphasizing no personal grudge: "If I can pass to you and if I see you, I will." Mané accepted, noting their competitiveness[2]. Salah later reflected to L'Equipe: "There was tension... but we were professional... Off the pitch, we weren't very close, but we always respected each other"[1].

Mané consoled Salah after the AFCON penalty, underscoring sportsmanship despite rivalry[2]. Both carry national burdens—Mané felt disrespected in Senegal until victory, understanding the pressure Salah faces[2]. Now, in the 2026 AFCON semifinal, their Anfield brotherhood pauses as they vie for African glory, with Mané aiming for a second title and Salah chasing his dream[1][2][3].

This matchup blends ambition, past grievances, and elite competition, proving rivalries thrive between ex-allies[3]. (Word count: 298)