By Business Insider Reporter
Senegal booked their place in the Africa Cup of Nations final after a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Egypt in the first semi-final, ending the Pharaohs’ hopes of another continental crown and reaffirming the Lions of Teranga’s status as a tournament powerhouse.
The decisive moment came in the second half, when Senegal capitalised on sustained pressure to finally break Egypt’s stubborn resistance. After a tight, tactical opening period dominated by midfield battles and disciplined defending, Senegal raised the tempo following the restart, pushing Egypt deeper into their own half.
The breakthrough arrived when Senegal exploited space near the box, where the lose ball found Senegal talisman, Sadio Mane, who delivered a thunderous shot past the Egyptian goalkeeper.
The goal, scored with only 13 minutes remaining, sparked the Pharaohs who started to attack Senegals goals but it was too late.
Egypt, record seven-time AFCON champions, attempted to respond by introducing attacking substitutions, but Senegal’s defence remained organised and physical, limiting clear scoring chances.
From the start Senegal enjoyed possession though late in the match after the goal, Egypt woke up, struggled to test the Senegalese defense with long-range efforts and set pieces comfortably dealt with by Senegal goalkeeper, Edward Mendy.
For Senegal, the victory was as much about control and discipline as attacking intent. Having dominated much of the tournament, they once again demonstrated their ability to manage high-pressure matches against elite opposition. Their midfield dictated the rhythm, while the back line absorbed Egypt’s late pressure with maturity.
The defeat marks another painful exit for Egypt at the semi-final stage, continuing a recent trend of near misses in major tournaments. While the Pharaohs showed resilience and organisation, their lack of cutting edge in the final third proved costly against a well-drilled Senegal side.
Senegal will now turn their focus to the final, where they will aim to lift the AFCON trophy and cement their place among Africa’s modern football giants. They are going to face either Morocco or Nigeria, which are going to clash this evening in the second semi-final. Egypt, meanwhile, will be left to reflect on what might have been as they prepare for the third-place playoff and future continental challenges.
