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The Senegalese footballing icon Sadio Mane unveiled the newly built football stadium in his native village of Bambali during his recent visit to the country in the build-up of their African Cup of Nations (AFCON) title defence. The 31-year-old, who financed the construction of Stade de Bambali, was among the prominent Senegalese figures to attend its grand opening ceremony.
In the summer of 2022, Sadio Mane was spotted playing football with his friends during pre-season in June at this fully muddied ground. And then, in just about 18 months or so, he fulfilled a pledge to build a new football stadium in its place from the ground up, officially inaugurating it with his advisor Bakary Cisse and some officials of the local Senegalese authorities.
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The Senegalese media outlet WiwSport, Sadio Mane spoke about the Stade de Bambali and what it means to him, and the people in attendance at the opening ceremony. He was quoted as saying, “It is with immense pride and a heart full of joy that I stand before you, on this FIFA standard football field which has a lot of meaning for me. This is not just a gift from me to my beloved village. Above all, it is the symbol of our unity, our strength, and our passion for football.”
“To you, young people, this land is for you. Cultivate your talents, live your dreams, and surpass yourself. Above all, I encourage you to develop your skills, to work hard, and to always believe in your abilities,” the highest goalscorer in Senegalese history further added.
