Mueez Ajao
– Sadio Mane did not let speculation surrounding his future at Liverpool affect him on international duty as he hit a hat-trick to become Senegal’s record goalscorer.
– Mane’s goals secured a 3-1 win over 10-man Benin in a 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier and saw him surpass Henri Camara, moving on to 31 goals from 86 appearances.
– The 30-year-old has one year left on his deal at Anfield and has been linked with a move to German champions Bayern Munich.
Also Read: Sadio Mane confirms his desire to leave Liverpool
– Before the game the forward had joked he would listen to the advice of his compatriots on social media.
– “Isn’t it between 60-70% of Senegalese that want me to leave Liverpool? I will do what they want,” Mane said.
– “Don’t worry, it’s not far. Don’t be in a hurry, you’ll see it soon, there’s no problem.”
– Mane scored an early penalty and added a second from close range midway through the first half in Diamniadio.
– After Benin midfielder Sessi D’Almeida was sent off, Mane completed his hat-trick on the hour mark with another spot-kick before the visitors pulled one back late on through Junior Olaitan.
– Senegal became continental champions for the first time in February – with Mane scoring the shootout winner against Egypt – and Aliou Cisse’s side began the defence of their title by going top of Group L.
– The Teranga Lions are two points ahead of Madagascar and Rwanda, who drew on Thursday.
– Elsewhere in the opening round of qualifiers on Saturday, Mali thrashed Congo-Brazzaville and there were also wins for Algeria, Gabon, Mauritania and The Gambia.
