Sadio Mane did not let speculation surrounding his future at Liverpool affect him on international duty as he hit a hat-trick to become Senegal’s record goalscorer.
Mane’s goals secured a 3-1 win over 10-man Benin in a 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier and saw him surpass Henri Camara, moving on to 31 goals from 86 appearances.
The 30-year-old has one year left on his deal at Anfield and has been linked with a move to German champions Bayern Munich.
Before the game the forward had joked he would listen to the advice of his compatriots on social media.
“Isn’t it between 60-70% of Senegalese that want me to leave Liverpool? I will do what they want,” Mane said.
“Don’t worry, it’s not far. Don’t be in a hurry, you’ll see it soon, there’s no problem.”
Mane scored an early penalty and added a second from close range midway through the first half in Diamniadio.
After Benin midfielder Sessi D’Almeida was sent off, Mane completed his hat-trick on the hour mark with another spot-kick before the visitors pulled one back late on through Junior Olaitan.
Senegal became continental champions for the first time in February – with Mane scoring the shootout the winner against Egypt – and Aliou Cisse’s side began the defence of their title by going top of Group L.
The Teranga Lions are two points ahead of Madagascar and Rwanda, who drew on Thursday.
Elsewhere in the opening round of qualifiers on Saturday, Mali thrashed Congo-Brazzaville and there were also wins for Algeria, Gabon, Mauritania and The Gambia.
