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By Oscar Okhifo
Sadio Mané struck late to fire Senegal into the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final, as the Teranga Lions edged Egypt 1–0 on Wednesday night in Tangier.
The goal kept Senegal’s hopes of a second AFCON crown in five years alive, while ending Egypt’s bid for a record 10th final appearance.
The semi-final was a tempestuous, tense and cagey affair for long stretches, with both sides wary of each other’s strengths.
Senegal ruled possession and probed patiently for an opening, while Egypt sat deep, relying on a compact defence and counter-attacks.
Chances were scarce in the first half. Senegal controlled the ball in Egypt’s half but struggled to create clear opportunities, while Mohamed Salah and his teammates found it difficult to break through, leaving goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy largely untested before halftime.
Senegal coach Pape Thiaw praised his players’ composure after the match:
“We respect Egypt’s pedigree and experience, but our ambition is clear. We want to reach another final and we believe our style of football can take us there.”
Egypt coach Hossam Hassan reflected on the narrow defeat:
“These matches are always decided by small details. Senegal are strong, but Egypt know how to manage pressure situations.”
After the break, Senegal increased their intensity. They pressed higher, moved the ball faster, and sought to stretch Egypt’s compact defensive line.
Despite their dominance, clear chances came slowly until the 78th minute when a loose ball fell to Mané at the edge of the box. With composure, the forward struck a clean shot past El Shenawy, sparking celebrations among Senegal players and fans.
The goal was Mané’s 11th in AFCON history, drawing him level with Salah in the tournament’s scoring charts.
Egypt tried to mount a late response but lacked both energy and ideas.
Senegal remained organized, defended resolutely, and saw out the final minutes without serious trouble.
The victory sends Senegal into their third AFCON final in the last five editions and maintains their bid to reclaim the title they last won in 2021 after defeating Egypt on penalties.
For Egypt, the loss ends their hopes of reaching a record 10th AFCON final.
Senegal will now await the winner of the other semi-final between Nigeria and Morocco as they aim to add another chapter to their recent AFCON success story, with Mané once again playing a pivotal role. It’s been Celebration galore in the camp of the victors.