winning the Africa Cup of Nations with his country remains the greatest achievement of his football career.
Mendy said the continental triumph was even more meaningful to him than winning the UEFA Champions League, describing the AFCON victory as ten times better than his European club success.
He also looked back on the dramatic final against Morocco, particularly the stoppage-time penalty he saved before Senegal eventually secured victory after extra time.
Mendy Recalls Saving Ibrahim Diaz’s Penalty
Mendy discussed the moments leading up to his crucial save from Real Madrid midfielder Ibrahim Diaz.
The Senegalese goalkeeper explained that he was able to read Diaz’s approach before the penalty was taken, paying close attention to the player’s movement as he approached the ball.
Mendy noticed that Diaz slowed his steps early in the run-up, which helped the goalkeeper anticipate the direction of the shot and make the save.
The moment became one of the most dramatic scenes of the final, which was also marked by a lengthy stoppage and tense incidents before play eventually resumed.
Final Controversy Continues
Despite Senegal’s celebrations, controversy surrounding the final continued after the Confederation of African Football later issued a decision regarding the match, with the Senegalese side subsequently pursuing legal action to challenge the ruling.
Mendy remains firm in his view of what happened on the pitch.
The goalkeeper emphasized that the match was completed on the field, that Senegal received the trophy and celebrated the title, and that he sees no reason to change his position regarding his country’s AFCON triumph.
Edouard Mendy Retires From International Football After 59 Caps
At the age of 34, Mendy announced his retirement from international football after making 59 appearances for Senegal.
He revealed that new Senegal head coach Patrick Vieira attempted to convince him to reverse his decision, but Mendy said he remained committed to ending his international career after carefully considering the matter.
Mendy also spoke positively about the possibility of working with Vieira, whom he described as a “legend,” but said he reached his final decision after two days of reflection.
He believes the time has come to begin a new chapter away from international football.
AFCON Triumph Above Champions League Glory
When discussing the defining moments of his career, Mendy placed Senegal’s AFCON triumph at the top of his list.
That achievement came despite his successful club career, which includes winning the Champions League with Chelsea in 2021 and later lifting the AFC Champions League twice with Al Ahli.
Mendy described winning the Africa Cup of Nations as the best moment of his career and said it was ten times better than winning the Champions League.
He explained that club success is an exceptional achievement, but winning with the national team carries a different emotional value, particularly when representing a country that had never previously won the continental title.
For Mendy, being part of a historic achievement with Senegal was an experience that cannot easily be replicated.
Mendy Proud of His Influence on the Next Generation
Mendy also discussed his latest nomination for the Yashin Trophy, saying that remaining among the nominees despite playing in the Saudi Pro League is a major source of pride.
The goalkeeper reflected on the difficult stages of his career and stressed that his achievements came through persistence, hard work and determination.
He said he is particularly happy when he sees young Senegalese goalkeepers wearing the number 16 shirt, viewing it as evidence that his journey has inspired the next generation.
Mendy also expressed confidence in Senegal’s young talents, highlighting players such as Lamine Camara and Ibrahim Mbaye and hoping that the new generation can continue achieving success with the Lions of Teranga.
From Unemployment to the Top of Football
Mendy’s career also includes a difficult period early in his professional journey, when he spent around a year without a club before receiving another opportunity that helped put his career back on track.
After reaching the highest levels of European and international football, Mendy has sought to give back to Senegal.
He has contributed to the funding of a school in the hometown of his parents in Senegal while also supporting initiatives aimed at helping young entrepreneurs.
Mendy believes Senegal’s talented young generation needs opportunities to develop, and he considers seeing his mother feel proud of the school he has helped support one of the most valuable rewards of his life.
What is Edouard Mendy’s greatest career achievement?
Mendy considers winning the Africa Cup of Nations with Senegal the greatest achievement of his football career.
Why does Mendy value AFCON more than the Champions League?
He believes winning with his national team carries a unique emotional and historical value, especially because Senegal had never previously won the continental title.
How many international appearances did Mendy make for Senegal?
Edouard Mendy made 59 appearances for Senegal before retiring from international football.
Who took the penalty saved by Mendy in the final?
Ibrahim Diaz took the penalty that Mendy saved during the Africa Cup of Nations final.
Did Mendy win the Champions League?
Yes. Mendy won the UEFA Champions League with Chelsea in 2021.
