Edouard Mendy Explains Senegal Walk-Off but Remains Tight-Lipped Over Brahim Diaz Conversation

In a dramatic turn of events during the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final, Senegal’s goalkeeper Edouard Mendy has opened up about the team’s controversial decision to walk off the pitch. The unexpected protest occurred in the closing moments of the match following a penalty awarded against Senegal in stoppage time. However, Mendy emphasized that ultimately, “football won,” after Senegal returned to the field to secure a victory with Pape Gueye’s extra-time goal.

“We’re not going to talk in the heat of the moment. Things happened, but in the end, what matters is that football won,” Mendy stated, reflecting on the tense atmosphere that surrounded the match. The decision to leave the pitch was made by coach Pape Thiaw but was reversed after talisman Sadio Mane played a pivotal role in persuading the team to compete for the trophy.

Mendy also acknowledged Morocco’s long journey towards winning their first AFCON trophy in over 50 years. “Morocco has been waiting for this trophy for over 50 years. They had everything going for them, but we responded in our own way, and tonight we celebrate Senegal,” he said. The victory sparked joy among millions of Senegalese fans, with Mendy adding, “We were determined to win this final, to bring the trophy home. Millions of Senegalese are happy, and we’re going to enjoy this.”

Despite their triumph, Senegal now faces the fallout from their mid-match protest, which is likely to result in sanctions. Mendy, who was crucial in the match, saved a penalty taken by Brahim Diaz, a moment that could have shifted the game dramatically. “He attempted the Panenka, but I stayed on my feet. We kept the team in the game, and I helped my team at that moment,” Mendy explained.

When asked about the discussions that took place in the locker room during the protest, Mendy remained reserved, stating, “What did we say to each other? That’s between us. We did it together and we came back together, that’s all that matters. We can be proud tonight.”