Senegal Advances to 2025 Africa Cup of Nations Final with Victory Over Egypt

Senegal is poised to compete in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final after defeating Egypt 1-0 in a semi-final match held in Tangier, Morocco, on Wednesday.

Following a scoreless first half, Sadio Mane delivered the crucial goal late in the second half.

Egypt’s Rami Rabia made a significant defensive block in the 16th minute, thwarting Iliman Ndiaye’s attempt to score from the edge of the box. Just moments later, Senegal faced a setback when Kalidou Koulibaly received a yellow card, which will prevent him from participating in Sunday’s final. Subsequently, he was substituted due to an injury and replaced by Mamadou Sarr.

Koulibaly’s yellow card and subsequent exit represented a considerable loss for the Lions of Teranga, as his experience is invaluable in defense.

Adapting to their captain’s absence, Senegal regrouped, and in the 24th minute, Mane nearly disrupted the Egyptian defense. He sought to capitalize on a cross delivered by Ndiaye, but Yasser Ibrahim intervened in time to clear the ball.

Ibrahim continued to frustrate Senegal’s efforts, notably during Ndiaye’s promising solo run in the 28th minute, where he again managed to clear the ball at a critical moment.

Tensions escalated on the sidelines in the 41st minute as both coaches exchanged heated words. Mane stepped in to mediate, and after a brief confrontation, Egypt’s coach Hossam Hassan and Senegal’s Pape Bouna Thiaw reconciled with a handshake.

Just before halftime, Habib Diarra was shown a yellow card, which will also keep him out of the final.

Senegal earned a promising free kick in the 62nd minute, but Mane’s attempt to find a teammate was swiftly collected by Egyptian goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy.

Continuing to apply pressure, Senegal created multiple opportunities, and in the 74th minute, Ndiaye had a chance to score but failed to find the target.

Finally, the Lions of Teranga broke the deadlock in the 78th minute. Mane, positioned at the edge of the box, struck the ball, which landed just inside the left post.

In response to the goal, Egypt’s coach Hassan made tactical substitutions, bringing on Zizo for Rabia in the 81st minute, followed by Mostafa Mohamed for Emam Ashour three minutes later.

Despite Egypt’s late efforts, they could not respond, and Senegal advanced to the final, while Egypt will compete for the bronze medal.

Senegal’s dominance over Egypt continues, adding to the heartbreak for the North African side. Mane has been a pivotal player throughout the tournament, scoring the decisive goal against Egypt, marking his fifth contribution in Morocco and elevating his total to eleven goals in AFCON finals, tying him with former Liverpool teammate Mohamed Salah.

Egypt’s aspirations to assert their dominance in African football have been thwarted. As record champions and back-to-back winners from 2006 to 2010, this elimination signifies a disappointing chapter for the team and its supporters. For Salah and his teammates, the dream of AFCON glory will have to wait for another opportunity.