Africa Cup of Nations: Jay-Jay Okocha says Sadio Mane risked his life taking the match-winning penalty against Egypt

Nigeria legend Jay-Jay Okocha said he thought Sadio Mane was «risking his life» by stepping up to take the decisive penalty in Senegal's Africa Cup of Nations final win over Egypt. Mane converted past Pharoahs' keeper Gabaski to seal the cup for his side — their first-ever AFCON title — and it was even more impressive given he had missed a spot-kick in the seventh minute of the encounter. Ad/> And Okocha highlighted the possible consequences had the Liverpool forward missed again.

Africa Cup of NationsMane and Salah's AFCON experience will benefit Liverpool — KloppYESTERDAY AT 11:49 «It's not every player that can step up again to go and take that penalty,» Okocha said on African broadcaster SuperSport. «Because you know in Africa how hostile our fans are. By doing so, he was risking his life, risking his family’s life, even his home, you know? »But that's what he's born to do.

He's born to play football, and whatever comes with it, he's willing to accept it." Mane ends Senegal’s jinx as Salah reignites age-old debate – The Warm-Up 'Super proud' Mendy is the 'best in the world' says Senegal captain Koulibaly Mane declared his relief at netting the crucial kick, and revealed he would be departing from his customary persona to celebrate the triumph. /> “Me and penalties, it's a long history — especially with the national team," Mane told Canal+. «But that can happen in football.

I'm 29 now and I have experience of that. »I knew it was difficult but I didn't doubt myself. «Even if we hadn't won, life would've gone on.

»But fortunately God helped us. We won the cup, we are happy and I'm going to keep taking penalties. «I'm not much of a party animal but this time we'll go to Barramundi, a club in Dakar.