Mane Destroys Salah's Afcon Dream Again - Will He Get Another Chance?

The article delves into the intense rivalry between Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah, spotlighting Mane's repeated triumphs over Salah in pivotal Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) encounters, particularly crushing Egypt's aspirations.[1]

At the 2021 AFCON final in Yaoundé's Stade d'Olembe, Senegal triumphed over Egypt in a penalty shootout. Mane scored the decisive penalty, denying Salah—who hadn't yet taken his kick—the continental glory. This loss marked one of Salah's most bitter failures, as Egypt fell short despite reaching the final.[1]

Earlier, in AFCON 2017 in Gabon, Egypt reached the final but lost to Cameroon. Salah's penalty heartbreak came in qualifiers for the 2022 Qatar World Cup, where lasers distracted him at Diamniadio stadium; he fired over the bar, while Mane converted to secure Senegal's spot.[1]

Senegal also dominated 2014 AFCON qualifiers against Egypt. Across these high-stakes clashes, Mane consistently prevailed, establishing himself as the superior AFCON performer against Salah.[1]

Both stars shared glory at Liverpool, peaking alongside each other and earning African Footballer of the Year honors. Yet, Salah's Anfield successes contrast with his national team disappointments, often architected by his former teammate.[1][2]

Now 33, Salah faces Mane again, needing victory to reach a third AFCON final and chase Egypt's first title. The piece questions if Salah can overcome this nemesis for redemption.[1]

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