Senegal booked their place in the final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations with a narrow but hard-fought 1-0 victory over Egypt in Wednesday’s semi-final clash in Tanger, keeping their dream of a second continental title firmly alive.
The tightly contested encounter saw both sides display tactical discipline and defensive solidity, but it was Senegal’s patience and persistence that ultimately made the difference as they continued their impressive run in the tournament.
Former Liverpool forward Sadio Mané once again proved to be the decisive figure, striking late in the second half to separate the two sides and bring Egypt’s campaign to an end under Pape Thiaw’s leadership.
Early disruptions and disciplinary setbacks
The encounter began with early complications for both teams, as Egypt’s Hossam Abdelmaguid and Senegal’s Kalidou Koulibaly picked up yellow cards that rule them out of the final, dealing early disciplinary setbacks to both camps.
Senegal’s problems deepened in the 22nd minute when captain Koulibaly was forced off through injury, prompting an early reshuffle at the back, with Mamadou Sarr introduced in his place to steady the defence.
Despite the disruption and loss of their captain, Senegal gradually asserted control of the contest, dictating the tempo and forcing Egypt to retreat deeper into their half.
Attempts from Habib Diarra and Pape Gueye were comfortably dealt with by Mohamed El Shenawy, while Malick Diouf’s low delivery shortly before half-time signalled growing pressure from the Lions of Teranga as they searched for an opening.
Mané delivers the breakthrough
The second half followed a similar pattern, with Senegal dominating possession and territory, while Egypt remained compact, disciplined, and largely conservative in their approach.
Clear-cut chances were limited, and frustration mounted for Thiaw’s side as Egypt focused on containment rather than ambition, hoping to force the game into extra time.
The breakthrough finally arrived in the 77th minute when Mané unleashed a powerful long-range effort that beat El Shenawy, sending the Senegalese bench and fans into celebration and underlining their sustained superiority.
Pape Gueye nearly added a second goal soon after, but fired over from close range, while Senegal continued to press in search of a decisive cushion.
Egypt pushed forward late in search of an equaliser, committing more players into attack, but Senegal managed the closing stages efficiently and professionally to see out the result.
With the win secured, Senegal advance to Sunday’s final, where they will face either Nigeria or hosts Morocco, as they look to add another Africa Cup of Nations title to their growing footballing history.