Flames captain Frank Gabadinho Mhango and assistant coach Peter Mponda have attributed Senegal’s 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) triumph to consistency and determination. The Lions of Teranga defied the odds to pip hosts Morocco’s Atlas Lions 1-0 in Rabat on Sunday in a contest that shredded the nerves of the continent. In an interview yesterday, South Africa-based Mhango, who earlier tipped the scales in Morocco’s favour due to home ground advantage, said: “Senegal displayed strong character.
It’s not easy to play against such a strong team in their own backyard and in front of a hostile crowd. “They were determined and had self-belief. They were also tactically and technically sound.
They knew what they wanted and had a good game plan that worked to perfection.” The Malawi National Football Team captain said there are several lessons to be drawn from Senegal’s triumph. “We have to change our mindset and believe in ourselves. Self-belief and determination are crucial, but we can’t run away from the fact that we have to beat the best,” he said.
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On his part, Mponda, who is also a former Flames on-field leader, said: “Senegal deserved to win. From the word go, they were compact and disciplined both on and off the ball throughout the tournament. “It was a befitting final between top quality sides, but it was evident Senegal wanted it more.” On the other hand, veteran football players’ agent Ben Chiwaya said: “What a beautiful game!
The Senegalese were just there to win the game. They were good in all departments and strong both physically and technically.” The final wasn’t without drama as it descended into chaos after Senegal players trooped off the pitch after a controversial penalty moments after they were denied a goal. Senegal manager Pape Thiaw was left incensed by the chaotic minutes in stoppage time and told his players to leave the pitch, taking them to back to the dressing room.
The delay lasted 13 minutes with discussions between former Liverpool star Sadio Mane and the tournament officials. However, the players returned to the pitch, but there was even more drama as Morocco’s Brahim Diaz got his match-winning spot-kick saved by Edouard Mendy. Senegal’s Pape Gueye scored the winner in the fourth minute of extra time at Stade Prince Moulay Abdallah.
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