AFCON 2021: Mane, Senegal’s talisma - Okocha

Tournament favourites, Senegal, took on dark horses Equatorial Guinea in the last of the quarterfinal clashes of the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations yesterday, with Mane proving to be Africa’s best, despite all odds.

Sadio Mane was cleared to play after suffering a concussion scare during their round of 16 win versus Cape Verde five days ago.

Mane had been doubtful for the match after he was taken to hospital as a precaution after a clash of heads with the Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha.

Nigeria legend Austin Okocha had highlighted that for the Liverpool winger to have made the Senegalese squad for the crucial game against the Nzalang Nacional was a big boost to the Lions of Teranga.

The 29-year-old has been Senegal's most influential player at the Africa Cup of Nations so far, scoring two of their three goals.

Speaking on SuperSport, Okocha said : "Sadio Mane is a tough nut to crack, I was surprised that he regained consciousness immediately after that clash.

"Of course his presence is needed in this Senegalese side because he is their talisman and he's been leading the team as well in this tournament .

"But like we said no team is a pushover, you have to earn the right to win your matches, you have to do your job and you must understand that, which Senegal did.’’