AFCON 2019: Mane steps down as Senegal's penalty taker

AFCON 2019: Mane steps down as Senegal's penalty taker

By Sampson Adedeji

After missing penalty kick in two successive matches, BSN Sports can report that Senegal forward Sadio Mane has decided to step down as the country penalty taker in the ongoing 2019 African Cup of Nations.

The Liverpool striker has scored 3 goals in the competition and has also missed two penalties for the Teranga Lions.

He announced his decision to step down on Friday night after he helped Senegal overcome Uganda in the round of 16 game.

It's a momentary withdrawal," he told Senegalese media after the match. "I have missed penalties in both games and must admit that it is not a good ratio.

"I do not want to penalise my team and, at least for the time being, I'm going to stand aside for the penalties and let other team mates get on with it."

"When I return to my club, I will continue to work hard to improve on this aspect," added the Liverpool forward.

He played two matches in 2015 when his side went out in the first round and, two years ago in Gabon, scored two goals but could not prevent a quarter-final elimination against Cameroon, missing the decisive penalty in the shootout.