The Africa Cup of Nations final witnessed an extraordinary scene after the match was halted at its crucial moments, with the veteran French coach Claude Le Roy present on the sidelines during the chaos that followed the referee's decision. Tensions peaked after the Senegalese players protested, in one of the most controversial moments of the final.

During those tense minutes, Senegalese star Sadio Mané approached Claude Le Roy and directly asked him what he would do if he were in his complicated situation. Le Roy, who has extensive experience in African football, advised Mané to remain calm and try to convince his teammates to return to the field and complete the match regardless of the circumstances.

Mané heeded the advice and played the role of leader within the group, working to calm the players and encouraging them to return to the pitch to resume the final. This decision was decisive, as it allowed the Senegalese team to continue the match and avoid losing the title administratively.

After the match resumed, the course of the final completely changed, with the Senegalese team regaining focus and succeeding in securing the victory in a dramatic scenario that emphasized the importance of leadership and experience in critical moments, making that moment one of the most prominent scenes in the history of the Africa Cup of Nations finals.