In a thrilling revelation following the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final on February 6, 2022, Egyptian goalkeeper Mohamed Abou Gabal, popularly known as Gabaski, shared details of a pivotal conversation with Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane that led to his crucial penalty save. Despite Egypt’s eventual 4-2 loss to Senegal in the penalty shootout, Gabaski’s heroics in the match, including saving Mane’s early penalty, captivated football fans across the continent.
The Penalty Drama in Yaoundé
The AFCON final, held at the Olembé Stadium in Yaoundé, Cameroon, saw Egypt and Senegal battle to a goalless draw after 120 minutes. The match’s defining moment came in the third minute when Senegal was awarded a penalty. Gabaski, the Zamalek goalkeeper, rose to the occasion, saving Sadio Mane’s spot kick. However, Senegal ultimately clinched the title in the shootout, with Mane redeeming himself by scoring the decisive penalty, despite Gabaski diving the correct way.
Gabaski recounted the pre-penalty exchange to MBC Egypt, as reported by Goal. He revealed that Mohamed Salah, Egypt’s star forward, provided critical insight just before Mane’s attempt. “Salah told me: Mane would shoot to the right side, he is coming now because he knows what I am saying,” Gabaski said. Mane, overhearing the conversation, interjected, “I will shoot on the left,” to which Salah responded confidently, “Let’s see.” Gabaski’s save validated Salah’s prediction, showcasing the mind games that unfolded on the pitch.
Gabaski’s Rise to Prominence
Gabaski’s performance was a standout in Egypt’s AFCON campaign, particularly after he stepped in for first-choice goalkeeper Mohammed El Shenawy, who was sidelined by injury during the Round of 16 match against Ivory Coast. The 32-year-old goalkeeper became a national hero, saving four penalties across Egypt’s three shootouts in the tournament. His preparation was meticulous, as evidenced by notes on his water bottle detailing the likely directions of opposition penalty takers—a tactic that proved effective throughout the knockout stages.
Despite his heroics, Egypt’s loss marked their first failure to convert a penalty in the tournament’s shootouts, with misses from Mohanad Lasheen and Mostafa Mohamed proving costly. Gabaski’s efforts, however, earned him widespread praise, with fans and analysts lauding his composure under pressure. “Gabaski was our wall in goal,” an Egyptian supporter remarked on social media, reflecting the nation’s appreciation.
Salah and Mane: A Tale of Friendship and Rivalry
The exchange between Salah and Mane, Liverpool teammates, added a compelling narrative to the final. Their familiarity, honed through years of playing together in the English Premier League, allowed Salah to anticipate Mane’s intentions, while Mane’s attempt to mislead Gabaski showcased the psychological battle inherent in high-stakes penalties. The moment encapsulated their respect and rivalry, with Salah’s guidance proving decisive in the early save, though Mane had the last word in the shootout.
The match highlighted Senegal’s first-ever AFCON triumph, ending Egypt’s bid for an eighth title. Gabaski’s performance, however, ensured his legacy as one of Egypt’s standout players in the tournament, with his penalty-saving prowess earning comparisons to legendary African goalkeepers.
Broader Implications
Gabaski’s revelation sheds light on the strategic preparation and mental acuity required in elite football. His use of written notes and reliance on Salah’s insights underscore the importance of teamwork and intelligence in high-pressure situations. The loss, while disappointing for Egypt, did not diminish Gabaski’s contribution, as he emerged as a symbol of resilience for the Pharaohs.
The 2021 AFCON final, with its dramatic penalty shootout, remains a defining moment in African football, highlighting the continent’s talent and passion. Gabaski’s story, from a stand-in goalkeeper to a national hero, continues to inspire fans as Egypt looks ahead to future competitions.
