Sadio Mane retires from Senegal duty after 2026 World Cup heartbreak

Sadio Mane has announced his retirement from international football following Senegal’s dramatic exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The 34-year-old Al-Nassr forward called time on his international career after Senegal suffered a heartbreaking 3-2 defeat to Belgium in the Round of 32, despite leading by two goals before eventually losing in extra time.

Mane was a key figure for the Lions of Teranga throughout the tournament, featuring in all four of Senegal’s World Cup matches. He leaves the national team as one of the country’s greatest-ever players, having earned 132 caps and scored 55 goals over a 14-year international career.

In a statement published by Senegalese outlet Le Quotidien, Mane paid tribute to his country and supporters.

“Know that I sacrificed everything for this flag.

“I gave the very best of myself and I always fought fiercely for our homeland.

“Your constant support has been the engine of my success.”

The former Liverpool and Bayern Munich star also revealed he hopes to continue serving Senegalian football in a different capacity.

“Tomorrow, I will gladly put my experience at the service of the nation, whether within a technical staff, on the sidelines as a coach, or in the governing bodies.”

Reflecting on his journey with the national team, Mane concluded with a simple message:

“Long live Senegal.”

Mane’s retirement brings the curtain down on an illustrious international career that included leading Senegal to Africa Cup of Nations glory and helping establish the Lions of Teranga as one of Africa’s leading football nations.

His final appearance came in the World Cup defeat to Belgium, which ended Senegal’s hopes after they surrendered a two-goal advantage before falling 3-2 after extra time.

Vanguard News