Sadio Mane 10 of Senegal looks on during the 2026 FIFA World Cup Group I match between Senegal and Iraq at Toronto Stadium. on June 26, 2026
Former Liverpool star Sadio Mane has been knocked out of the 2026 World Cup.Imago

Liverpool fans say the same thing about Sadio Mane in Senegal vs Belgium clash

Harri Burton

Senior Correspondent AUTHORITY Senior football journalist specialising in refereeing and officiating; former contributor to The Football League Paper, Late Tackle, and the Premier League; University of Derby graduate. FOCUS Refereeing controversies, football finance and governance, PGMOL decisions, and officiating analysis across the Premier League, EFL, and SPFL. THE INSIGHT Harri utilises a network of officiating and industry contacts to deliver verified, expert analysis of refereeing decisions and PGMOL policy. He provides the regulatory clarity behind the controversy to ensure fans get the full picture.

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Liverpool fans were watching closely from the comfort of their own homes as Sadio Mane starred in Senegal's push for World Cup glory.

It wasn't to be for the Anfield favourite or the rest of his team, however, as a late comeback from Belgium crushed their dreams on Wednesday, 1 July.

Habib Diarra and Ismaila Sarr both took advantage of some embarrassing defending to take a two-goal lead, but Senegal's collapse was something to behold.

Romelu Lukaku and Youri Tielemans dragged the Red Devils onto level terms, with the latter finishing off the job from the penalty spot at the end of extra time.

Although Mane failed to score or assist, it was a bright display from the 34-year-old, at least until he needed to be replaced in the 94th minute at the Seattle Stadium.

Liverpool fans just couldn't help but comment on what they'd seen from the winger, who made 269 appearances during his time with the Reds.

Liverpool fans reminisce over Sadio Mane display

Mane starred at Anfield between 2016 and 2022, and with Premier League and Champions League titles under his belt, he left a legend.

Given some of the Reds' struggles in 2025-26, one fan even suggested that he could still do a good job in Andoni Iraola's attack next season.

Liverpool's left side is certainly a weak position, hence the hijacked move for Victor Munoz, but Mane would still make a huge impact at Anfield.

Sadio Mane 10 of Senegal looks on during the 2026 FIFA World Cup Group I match between Senegal and Iraq at Toronto Stadium. on June 26, 2026
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Sadio Mane 10 of Senegal looks on during the 2026 FIFA World Cup Group I match between Senegal and Iraq at Toronto Stadium. on June 26, 2026
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What did the stats say about Mane's performance?

It was a hugely disappointing end to Senegal's 2026 World Cup run, but Mane gave absolutely everything possible before being substituted.

In 93 minutes, he created three chances, two of which were big, had one shot on target, and completed 50 per cent of his dribbles [FotMob].

The winger also made four recoveries, won 54 per cent of his ground duels, committed two fouls and even won four fouls for his team.

It was the kind of aggression, passion and talent that Liverpool are always crying out for. Sadly for fans at Anfield, his glory days appear to be behind him now.

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