AFCON 2023: Fans Insist Mane Should Have Seen Red for Horror Tackle During Senegal vs Ivory Coast

• Sadio Mane narrowly escaped a red card against Ivory Coast
• The Senegalese star recklessly lunged into Ibrahim Sangare
• Mane was the architect of Senegal's opening goal in the game

Football fans have unanimously agreed Sadio Mane should have been sent off following a reckless tackle on Ibrahim Sangare during Senegal's Round of 16 clash with Ivory Coast.

The Al-Nassr superstar, who is yet to showcase his full potential at the 2023 edition of the Africa Cup of Nations, somehow escaped what seemed like an obvious red card.

Before the incident, the two-time African Footballer of the Year had played a pivotal role by providing the assist for the opening goal, as cited by France24.

Mane's characteristic burst down the right wing resulted in a cross skillfully controlled by Habib Diallo, who then unleashed a shot into the top corner.

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Sadio Mane escapes red card

Later, in a bid to win possession, the 31-year-old Teranga Lions veteran lunged into a tackle on Sangare, launching his boots with studs exposed into the Ivorian midfielder's leg.

Typically, such actions warrant a red card. However, Gabonese referee, Pierre Ghislain Atcho chose to brandish a yellow card instead, inexplicably neglecting to consult the VAR to review his decision, GOAL reports.

How fans reacted to Mane's tackle

Fans closely following the game expressed their bewilderment at the decision, as many believed the Al-Nassr superstar should have faced an early exit due to his perilous foul play.

A convinced fan, @HowUBenFeller, said:

"Easily a red card. Isn’t even a debate."

Another user, @privatefigure_, insisted:

"Always a red. Idk how both the ref and VAR missed that."

@MCFCKama, on the other hand, pointed out that Mane's incident is the only refereeing dent at the 2023 AFCON:

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"The only unfair decision at AFCON so far."

@Sholeebaba was emphatic with his assessment:

"Clear red card but he was very lucky."

@AyraaaStar humorously wanted Mane gone for his reckless tackle:

"Send him home."

Ivory Coast stun Sadio Mane's Senegal

Sports Brief also previously reported the 2023 AFCON unfolded another chapter of its unpredictable narrative as Ivory Coast ousted defending champions, Senegal.

The Elephants, who advanced as one of the best third-placed group-stage finishers, surpassed the expectations of many by eliminating the reigning African champions.

This sparked reactions from fans in Abidjan and on social media, with many swiftly their thoughts on what has been a rollercoaster of a continental footballing spectacle.