Leadership Under Pressure: What Sadio Mané’s AFCON 2026 Performance Teaches Us About Business Resilience
By Nawar Abdul Wahed, CEO of EurAsia Gulf
In my role at EurAsia Gulf, I am privileged to observe leadership across diverse markets, from the tech hubs in Central Asia to the financial centers of the GCC. While we often look to boardrooms for inspiration, some of the most profound lessons in crisis management occur on the global sporting stage.
The recent AFCON 2026 final in Morocco was one such moment. It wasn't just a display of athletic prowess; it was a definitive masterclass in mental fortitude led by Senegal’s captain, Sadio Mané. For the modern executive, his actions offer a roadmap for navigating high-stakes volatility.
The Power of De-escalation in Crisis
When a controversial decision in the 98th minute pushed the Senegalese coaching staff to the brink of withdrawing the team, the match—and the reputation of African football—hung in the balance. In business, we call this the "emotional exit"—the moment a leader is tempted to walk away from a deal or a partnership out of perceived injustice.
Mané chose a different path. Instead of fueling the fire, he acted as the ultimate diplomat. By convincing his squad to return to the pitch, he demonstrated that integrity is maintained by finishing the mission, not by abandoning it. True leaders must be the stabilizing force when external pressures threaten to derail collective goals.
Success Beyond Individual Metrics
In an era of hyper-focus on KPIs and "unicorn" valuations, we often forget that the most valuable contributor isn't always the one who scores the most points. In the final, Mané was not the top scorer, yet he was undeniably the MVP of the team’s psyche.
As teammate Pape Gueye noted, Mané’s primary contribution was psychological stability. In our business community, we must value leaders who enable others to shine. Sustainable growth is built on the foundation of emotional intelligence, ensuring that the "team" remains functional even when individual members are under extreme duress.
Protecting the Collective Brand
One of the most striking aspects of Mané’s leadership was his focus on the "bigger picture." He spoke candidly about protecting the image of the sport, prioritizing the long-term reputation of African football over a short-term emotional reaction.
At EurAsia Gulf, we emphasize that a company’s reputation is inextricably linked to the reputation of the industry and the region it represents. When a leader makes a decision, they are an ambassador for their entire ecosystem. Mané’s commitment to the "brand" of the game is a reminder that professionalism is a non-negotiable asset for international success.
Legacy and the Art of Succession
As Mané nears the end of his international career, he is not merely exiting; he is transitioning. By mentoring younger talents like Iliman Ndiaye, he is ensuring that the "organization" of the Senegal national team remains robust long after he steps down.
The true legacy of a CEO is not measured by the company’s performance during their tenure, but by the strength of the foundation they leave behind. Mané is teaching us that succession planning is an act of leadership, not just an administrative task.
Closing Thoughts
The challenges we face in the EurAsia-Gulf corridor—market shifts, regulatory changes, and competitive pressures—require more than just technical expertise. They require the "Mané mindset": the ability to remain calm, think long-term, and lead with empathy.
As we look toward the future of our regional trade and innovation, let us remember that mental fortitude is the ultimate currency of leadership.
Nawar Abdul Wahed
CEO, EurAsia Gulf
nawar.abdulwahed@eurasiagulf.org
www.eurasiagulf.org
