Former Premier League referee Dermot Gallagher has praised Senegal forward Sadio Mané for his calm leadership during the tense moments that followed a controversial late penalty decision in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final between Senegal and Morocco.

Gallagher, speaking on Sky Sports News, shared his thoughts on the incident involving DR Congolese referee Jean-Jacques Ndala, describing Mané’s intervention as decisive in preventing the situation from spiraling out of control.

The controversy unfolded late in the game when Ndala awarded Morocco a penalty after Brahim Díaz was fouled in the box. The decision immediately sparked anger among Senegal players, who briefly walked off the pitch in protest.

At that critical moment, Mané stepped forward, urging his teammates to return to the field and allow the match to continue. His actions helped restore order and ensured the final was decided on the pitch rather than descending into chaos.

Moments later, Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy justified Mané’s faith by saving Díaz’s penalty. The West Africans then sealed victory in extra time, with Pape Gueye scoring the decisive goal to hand Senegal a 1-0 win and the AFCON title.

Reflecting on the incident, Gallagher said:

“He [Ndala] has got to thank Mané, he did a great job because he brought him back. I feel for the referee.”

Opinion: Leadership That Defines Champions

Mané’s role in that moment went beyond football. It was a reminder that true leaders reveal themselves under pressure—not just by scoring goals, but by protecting the integrity of the game. In a final already charged with emotion and controversy, his calm voice helped safeguard Africa’s biggest football showpiece.

For Ndala, the episode highlights how difficult officiating at elite level can be, especially in high-stakes matches. But for Senegal, it underlined why they deserved to be champions. They showed discipline, belief, and unity when it mattered most.

In the end, the AFCON final will be remembered not only for the trophy Senegal lifted, but for the leadership that kept the game alive—and ensured football, not chaos, had the final word.