Kalidou Koulibaly won praise across social media after a touching gesture during Senegal’s AFCON final victory, choosing not to lift the trophy himself and instead handing it to Sadio Mané.
Senegal defeated tournament hosts Morocco 1–0 after extra time, with Pape Gueye scoring the decisive goal in a dramatic final that was briefly overshadowed by controversy late in regulation time.
Although Koulibaly did not feature in the final after being forced off during the semi-final win over Egypt, the Senegal captain still joined the celebrations wearing full kit and a national flag around his waist. When the trophy was presented to him, the 34-year-old immediately passed it to Mané, allowing the forward to lift the silverware.
The defender gave the trophy to Sadio Mane to liftCredit: Getty
The moment was widely interpreted as a mark of respect for Mané, who is playing in his final Africa Cup of Nations tournament and had captained the side on the night. The former Liverpool star also played a key leadership role earlier in the match, helping to persuade his teammates to return to the pitch following protests over a late penalty decision — which Morocco ultimately failed to convert.
Fans applauded Koulibaly’s selflessness, describing the gesture as “pure class” and a symbol of leadership, while others humorously referenced his appearance in full kit, drawing comparisons to John Terry’s famous Champions League celebration in 2012.
Senegal’s victory secured another historic AFCON title, with Koulibaly’s act adding a memorable human moment to an already dramatic final.