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AFCON glory sparks a playful crossover: Amrabat sneaks into Mane’s Senegal celebration

19 January 2026

AFCON glory sparks a playful crossover: Amrabat sneaks into Mane’s Senegal celebration
Nordin Amrabat and Sadio Mane share a light moment after the AFCON final

AFCON celebration collides with studio banter

The Moroccan-Nordin Amrabat, a former Al-Nassr player, joined Sadio Mane as he celebrated Senegal’s Africa Cup of Nations triumph in a studio after the final.

Senegal defeated Morocco 1-0 to lift the title for the second time in their history.

During the televised interview, Mane did not notice Amrabat beside him until Amrabat teased him about winning a trophy with Al-Nassr after his AFCON victory, and the moment was sealed with a warm hug when Mane finally spotted him.

Amrabat, who recently joined Wydad Casablanca, had previously defended Al-Nassr’s colours from 2018 to 2021.

Humor note: Timing is everything in football, and sometimes it arrives in a studio during post-match analysis.

Punchline 1: If Mane’s trophy cabinet ever runs out of space, Amrabat offers a spare shelf and a handshake.

Punchline 2: In football, the real win is keeping a straight face while your friend crashes the broadcast with a wink.

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Emma Amme

I am Emma Amme, an English sports journalist born in 1998. Passionate about astronomy, contemporary dance, and handcrafted woodworking, I share my sensitive view of sports.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who surprised Mane during the post-final interview?

Nordin Amrabat, the Moroccan winger and former Al-Nassr player, appeared beside Mane in the studio.

What was Mane celebrating?

Senegal’s Africa Cup of Nations title, their second in history, after defeating Morocco 1-0.

What is Amrabat’s club connection mentioned in the piece?

Amrabat recently joined Wydad Casablanca and previously defended Al-Nassr’s colours from 2018 to 2021.

What humorous moment is highlighted in the article?

Amrabat teased Mane about winning another trophy with Al-Nassr, prompting a warm hug once Mane realized who was beside him.