VAR drama as Saudi Arabia roar back to beat Oman at Asian Cup
Football![VAR drama as Saudi Arabia roar back to beat Oman at Asian Cup](https://images.sportsbrief.com/images/320x180/7f602bf574569c63.webp?v=1)
A heartbroken Sadio Mane momentarily stepped out of his misery to applaud fans as he trudged off the pitch following Senegal's elimination from the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
The defending champions were surprised by hosts Ivory Coast, who forced a one-all draw in normal and extra-time. Moussa Nikahite was the only player to miss his penalty to throw the Teranga Lions out.
Senegal came into the game in high spirits after collecting maximum points in the group stage, looking to become the first reigning champion since 2010 to make it to the quarter-finals of the next edition.
VAR drama as Saudi Arabia roar back to beat Oman at Asian Cup
FootballThey got off to a perfect start within five minutes after Mane's cross from the left found Habib Diallo inside the area. The Al-Shabab forward chested it down beautifully before unleashing a rocket of a shot.
Ivory Coast's gameplay, under caretaker manager Emerse Fae, increased tenfold as they sought a way back into the game. It was only until late into the game when VAR awarded them a penalty, which was duly converted by Frank Kessie.
After the final whistle, Mane walked off the pitch, fully aware that he wouldn't have the opportunity to challenge for back-to-back trophies. He applauded some fans before disappearing into the tunnel.
Ivory Coast now proceed to the quarter-finals where they will face the winner of the game between Mali and Burkina Faso. At the time of writing, the former was leading 1-0 courtesy of an early own goal from Edmond Tapsoba.
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FootballSports Brief has also reported that Mane was lucky not to be sent off against Ivory Coast for a studs-up challenge on Ibrahim Sangare.
Referee Pierre Atcho only brandished a yellow card, with the VAR choosing not to intervene. Sangare received on-field treatment and went on with the game.