Senegal sink Egypt and book AFCON 2025 final place

14.01.26 FT AFCON - Africa Cup of Nations

Senegal

1

:

Egypt

0

Senegal booked their place in the AFCON 2025 final after beating Egypt 1 - 0 at Tangier Grand Stadium on Wednesday 14 January 2026 with Sadio Mané scoring the winner in the 78 minute.

For long stretches, the semi final looked destined for extra time. Senegal controlled territory and possession while Egypt stayed compact relying on quick breaks and moments from Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush that never truly opened the game up.

The key moment: Mané breaks the deadlock

The breakthrough arrived on 78 minutes. Senegal forced the issue in and around the box and Mane applied the final touch to give the Lions of Teranga the lead.

How the game unfolded

Senegal’s approach was clear, press high, rack up se -pieces and keep Egypt pinned back. Egypt meanwhile accepted long periods without the ball and tried to spring forward through Salah and Marmoush when the gaps appeared.

There were also key disruptions. Senegal captain Kalidou Koulibaly was forced off after picking up an early booking, a blow the Teranga Lions managed with calm organisation at the back.

Egypt did push late, making attacking changes and finally registering a late effort on target but Senegal protected their lead and saw out the final minutes without allowing clear equaliser.

So, Senegal qualified for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final again and is waiting for the winner between Nigeria and Morocco while Egypt now heads to the third place match

Khaled Hegazy |

Editorar, en

Journaliste sportif spécialisé dans la couverture du football et la création de contenu numérique, alliant expérience éditoriale et expertise des médias sociaux.

Related teams and leagues

Senegal

Egypt

AFCON - Africa Cup of Nations