THE 2021 AFCON tournament came to an end with West African country Senegal claiming the trophy as they were declared Champions of Africa on Sunday, February 6th, 2022.
Senegal, who are two-time silver medalists as they were runners-up in the 2002 and 2019 editions, were able to finally lay hands on the prestigious African trophy after defeating 8-time champions Egypt.
Sadio Mane, who was named the player of the tournament could have secured a win before the end of 90 minutes but failed to score from the spot within 5 minutes of the game. He eventually made up for his miss when he scored the winning penalty during the penalty shoot-out stage as the game ended 0-0 after extra time.
Senegal coach Aliou Cisse was full.of excitement when he spoke to broadcasters from beIN Sports:
"It just shows that if you work hard, if you persevere, you will get what you want,
"I am very emotional because the people of Senegal have wanted this trophy for 60 years."
The tournament ended with Senegal as champions, while Senegal forward Sadio Mane was named the player of the tournament. Chelsea and Senegal goalkeeper bagged the best goalkeeper of the tournament award, while Cameroon forward Aboubakar won the golden boot for being the highest goalscorer of the tournament.
