What Is 2021 Africa Cup of Nations final

Overview

The 2021 Africa Cup of Nations final was the culmination of a tournament delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic and held in early 2022. Originally scheduled for 2021, the competition took place from January 9 to February 6, 2022, in Cameroon, featuring 24 national teams competing for continental glory.

Senegal and Egypt advanced through tough knockout rounds to meet in the final, held at the newly constructed Olembe Stadium in Yaoundé. The match ended in a goalless draw after 120 minutes, leading to a penalty shootout that saw Senegal emerge victorious 4-2.

• Senegal's victory on February 6, 2022, marked their first AFCON title after five previous final losses in earlier tournaments.
• The match was played at Olembe Stadium, a 60,000-seat venue built specifically for the tournament in Cameroon’s capital.
• Goalkeeper Édouard Mendy played a crucial role, saving one penalty during the shootout and providing stability throughout the game.
• Egypt advanced as defending champions from 2010 but failed to score despite strong attacking efforts late in extra time.
• Sadio Mané, who missed a penalty in regulation, redeemed himself by scoring the winning kick in the shootout.

Penalty Shootout Breakdown

The final was decided not by goals during regulation or extra time, but by a tense penalty shootout that tested nerves and composure. Both teams had chances, but only Senegal converted under pressure, capitalizing on Egypt’s missed kicks.

• First penalty: Mohamed Salah opened for Egypt and scored, giving them an early lead in the shootout.
• Second kick: Senegal’s Sadio Mané had his initial attempt saved, but it was retaken due to encroachment and he missed again.
• Third penalty: Mahmoud Hassan (Trezeguet) stepped up for Egypt but had his shot saved by Édouard Mendy.
• Fourth attempt: Senegal’s Bouna Sarr converted confidently, maintaining pressure on Egypt’s remaining takers.
• Fifth kick: After Egypt’s Mohamed Abdelmonem missed, Mané stepped up again and scored the decisive goal.
• Final score: Senegal won 4-2 in the shootout, with four successful conversions out of five attempts.

Comparison at a Glance

Senegal and Egypt entered the final with contrasting paths and historical records. The table below highlights key performance metrics from the tournament and final match:

Despite Egypt’s superior historical record, Senegal’s defensive discipline and composure in high-pressure moments gave them the edge. Their consistent performances throughout the tournament, including a 3-1 semifinal win over Morocco, demonstrated their readiness for the final challenge.

Why It Matters

The 2021 AFCON final was a landmark moment for Senegalese football, symbolizing national pride and the culmination of years of near-misses. The victory elevated Senegal’s status in African football and inspired a new generation of players across West Africa.

• Historic breakthrough: Senegal had previously lost finals in 2002 and 2019, making this win a long-awaited achievement.
• Leadership of Aliou Cissé: As both a former player and current coach, Cissé led Senegal to glory, having missed a decisive penalty in 2002.
• Impact on African football: The win highlighted the growing strength of West African nations beyond traditional powers like Egypt and Cameroon.
• Global recognition: Sadio Mané and Édouard Mendy’s performances boosted their profiles ahead of the 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
• Cameroon’s hosting: Despite organizational challenges, the tournament showcased Cameroon’s ability to host major international events.
• Youth inspiration: The victory sparked celebrations across Senegal and motivated young athletes to pursue football careers.

Senegal’s triumph in the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations final was more than a sporting victory—it was a moment of national redemption and continental significance, cementing their place in African football history.