Senegal have sealed a place in the final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after grinding out a narrow 1–0 win over Egypt in Wednesday night’s semi-final showdown in Tangier.
Sadio Mané once again proved decisive on the big stage, firing home the winner late in the second half to send the Lions of Teranga through and keep alive their dream of lifting a second AFCON title.
The contest began with early drama as discipline issues hit both camps. Egypt defender Hossam Abdelmaguid and Senegal captain Kalidou Koulibaly were shown yellow cards, bookings that ruled them out of the final due to suspension. Senegal’s problems deepened in the 22nd minute when Koulibaly was forced off with an injury, with young Mamadou Sarr thrown into the fray.
As the match settled, Senegal gradually took control, dictating possession and pushing Egypt deep into their own half. Mohamed El Shenawy was called into action to deny efforts from Habib Diarra and Pape Gueye, while Malick Diouf’s dangerous delivery shortly before the break was hacked clear as the Pharaohs clung on.
Another setback followed for Senegal in the 42nd minute when Diarra picked up a booking, also ruling him out of the final. With neither side able to find a breakthrough, the teams went into the interval level.
The second half followed a similar script, with Senegal pressing patiently and Egypt focused almost entirely on defending. Chances remained scarce as Hossam Hassan’s side frustrated Pape Thiaw’s men with a compact defensive display.
The deadlock was finally broken in the 77th minute when Mané unleashed a powerful long-range strike that beat El Shenawy, rewarding Senegal’s persistence. The West Africans nearly doubled their advantage soon after, but Gueye blazed over from inside the area.
Egypt attempted a late push in search of an equaliser to force extra time, but Senegal stood firm to see out the win and bring the Pharaohs’ campaign to an end.
Senegal will now turn their attention to Sunday’s final on January 18, where they will face either Nigeria or hosts Morocco in the decisive clash for continental glory.
