FOOTBALL: Gini Wijnaldum insists that he has always believed in Sadio Mane’s abilities

Mane is the toast of Senegal after scoring the game-winning penalty kick that crowned the Lions of Teranga African Cup of Nations champions in 2022.

The Liverpool forward had earlier missed a penalty in the regulation 90 minutes against Egypt but delivered when it mattered most.

And former Reds team-mate Wijnaldum, who now plies his trade for Paris Saint-Germain, was only too happy to set the record straight.

Following Sunday’s nervy AFCON final between Senegal and Egypt, Wijnaldum tweeted: “Some great friends and amazing players in the AFCON final yesterday, but only one team could win!

“Congrats Sadio, @IGanaGueye@Abdou_diallo_ and the whole Senegal team for this historic win and Sadio, you know I always believed in you taking penalties.”

Wijnaldum’s faith in Mane was in stark contrast to what he said before the AFCON final on Sunday.

In footage shared on the PSG midfielder’s Twitter feed, an interviewer asks him if he has been in touch with Mane prior to the showpiece occasion.

When Wjnaldum confirms he had, and was asked what he said to him, he responded while laughing: “Don’t take penalties.”

The AFCON final was billed as the battle of Liverpool strikers with Mane’s Senegal going head-to-head with Mohamed Salah’s Egypt team.

With no goals after 120 minutes, Senegal prevailed 4-2 in a penalty shoot-out and Mane’s decisive conversion from 12 yards meant Salah didn’t even get to take one.

Salah is already back on Merseyside and trained with his teammates ahead of Liverpool’s Premier League match against Leicester City on Thursday.

Mane, who is still celebrating his nation’s success in Senegal, is expected to arrive back in England before the game but will not be involved in the contest.