Tangier, Morocco – In a thrilling semi-final clash at the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025, Sadio Mané's late goal propelled Senegal to a 1-0 victory over Mohamed Salah's Egypt on Wednesday, January 14, 2026. The match, held at the Grand Stade of Tangier, saw Senegal secure their place in the final, marking their third AFCON final appearance in the last five tournaments.
The game was a rematch of the 2021 AFCON final, where Senegal also triumphed over Egypt. This latest victory extends Senegal's dominance over North African teams, with 11 wins in their last 12 encounters. The first half was characterized by palpable tension, with neither side able to establish a significant attacking presence. Egypt struggled to register a single shot, while Senegal, despite controlling possession, found it difficult to create clear-cut chances.
Senegal's Nicolas Jackson missed an early opportunity, sending his shot over the bar. A setback for Senegal occurred when captain Kalidou Koulibaly was forced off the field due to injury. Both Koulibaly and Habib Diarra received yellow cards, meaning they will be suspended for the final.
The second half saw Senegal continue to press, but Egypt's defense remained resolute. Senegal's persistence finally paid off in the 78th minute when a loose ball fell to Sadio Mané just outside the penalty area. Mané seized the opportunity, delivering a precise, low strike past Egyptian goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy, igniting celebrations among the Senegalese supporters. The goal was Mané's 11th at the AFCON tournament, putting him level with his former Liverpool teammate, Mohamed Salah. It was also his fifth goal contribution of the current tournament.
Egypt, with only one shot on target throughout the game, struggled to respond. Senegal comfortably closed out the match, denying Egypt the chance to compete in what would have been their tenth AFCON final. While Egypt pushed forward after conceding, they left spaces at the back. A late shot from Egypt in stoppage time was easily saved by Edouard Mendy.
Senegal's coach made tactical changes in the second half, bringing on Lamine Camara for Habib Diarra. Egypt's coach, Hossam Hassan, responded by introducing Trezeguet for Ahmed Fatouh.
Senegal will now face the winner of the semi-final match between Morocco and Nigeria in the final. Egypt will compete in the third-place match on Saturday.
Senegal, who won their first AFCON title in 2021, are aiming for a second continental crown.
