Edouard Mendy made a crucial penalty save to help Senegal win the Africa Cup of Nations over Egypt on Sunday night.
The nation won 4-2 on penalties after Liverpool winger Sadio Mane scored to secure victory, having missed a penalty himself earlier in the game before it ended 0-0 after extra-time.
It adds yet another accolade to Mendy ’s collection in what has been an impressive year for the shot-stopper, adding to his Champions League medal and a number of individual awards that he earned.
The 29-year-old will soon return to club action, but most likely after a period of celebration and rest after a long international tournament.
The penalty save, as well as a number of saves during the match, may have cemented a title that Mendy won earlier this year.
He won an award as the best goalkeeper in the world for 2021 by FIFA, following on from his continually impressive displays in a Chelsea shirt.
The praise for Mendy came from his own coach too, with Tuchel previously believing that he should have been nominated for the Ballon d’Or.
The tournament itself may have come at a good time for the goalkeeper though, following a difficult run of form during the season.
Back in December, the German coach admitted Mendy may have lost some confidence, saying: “Edou [Mendy] is dealing with a rough period. I don’t know why exactly, but he seems to have lost a bit of confidence.”
Though it’s fair to say his confidence will be sky high once again after an impressive and crucial showing for his nation.
Chelsea fans were also full of praise for the ‘keeper, taking to social media to discuss him.
@CfcSheikh: “Best keeper in the world. He can save penalties as well.”
@CfcRon_: “We have the two best goalkeepers in the world.. Congrats Mendy.”
@LDNFootball: “BEST IN THE WORLD.”
@TomLevins1: “GIVE HIM THE BALLON D'OR.”
@Banji_og: “The best goalkeeper in the world.”
@FtblMaleek: “Champion of Europe. Champion of Africa. Congratulations, Édouard Mendy!”
@La_Femzi: “The Chelsea spirit never dies.. Champion of Europe. Champion of Africa.”
