AFCON 2025 Semi-final
Senegal 1–0 Egypt
Scorer: S. Mané 78’
Senegal booked their place in the AFCON 2025 final with a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Egypt, settling a tense semi-final contest through a decisive late strike from Sadio Mané. In a match defined by tactical discipline, physical intensity, and moments of fine margins, the reigning champions once again proved their pedigree on the continental stage.
From kickoff, the magnitude of the occasion was unmistakable. Egypt, Africa’s most decorated nation, set up with a compact and cautious approach, determined to frustrate Senegal’s attacking threats. Senegal, by contrast, imposed themselves early with aggressive pressing and dominance in midfield, seeking to control the rhythm and stretch Egypt’s defensive block.
The first half unfolded as a chess match. Senegal enjoyed more possession and territory, with their wide players pushing high and full-backs overlapping, but clear chances were limited. Egypt remained organised, defending deep with discipline and relying on swift counter-attacks whenever space opened. Goalkeepers on both sides were rarely tested, as defences stood firm and midfield battles took precedence over attacking flair.
After the break, the tempo increased noticeably. Senegal stepped up their pressing, moving the ball quicker and committing more numbers forward. Egypt responded with resilience, absorbing pressure and attempting to catch their opponents on the transition. As the clock ticked down, the contest appeared destined for extra time—until Senegal’s talisman delivered.
The breakthrough arrived in the 78th minute, and it was fittingly Sadio Mané who provided it. A well-worked move down the flank created just enough space, allowing Mané to find a pocket inside the box. With composure and precision, he finished clinically past the Egyptian goalkeeper, sparking wild celebrations among Senegal’s players and supporters. It was a moment of quality that separated two evenly matched sides.
Beyond the goal, Mané’s influence was immense. He led from the front, drawing defenders, winning fouls, and setting the tone in the closing stages as Senegal shifted into game-management mode. His experience in high-pressure matches once again proved decisive on Africa’s biggest stage.
Egypt pushed forward in search of an equaliser, making late tactical adjustments and committing more bodies into attack. Long balls, set pieces, and quick combinations tested Senegal’s resolve, but the West Africans held firm. Their defensive line remained composed, closing spaces intelligently and seeing out the final minutes with authority.
At the final whistle, Senegal celebrated a victory that underlined their maturity, tactical discipline, and championship mentality. Eliminating Egypt in a semi-final carries enormous significance, reaffirming Senegal’s status as one of Africa’s dominant forces.
For Egypt, the defeat marked a painful end to their AFCON 2025 journey, despite a courageous and organised performance. For Senegal, the dream continues as they advance to the AFCON 2025 final, now just one win away from lifting the continental crown once more.