Mane Strikes Late as Senegal Edge Egypt to Reach AFCON Final

Senegal booked their spot in the Africa Cup of Nations final after a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Egypt in a gripping semi-final showdown played on Wednesday night at the Grand Stade de Tanger.

For long stretches, the contest was a tactical chess match, with both sides cancelling each other out in a physical and disciplined first half. Egypt, led by the experience of Mohamed Salah, defended deep and looked to strike on the counter, while Senegal pressed with patience, probing for openings without overcommitting.

Clear-cut chances were few before the break, with goalkeepers Edouard Mendy and Mohamed El Shenawy largely untroubled as the sides went into halftime locked at 0–0.

The tempo lifted after the restart, with Senegal gradually asserting control. Their persistence finally paid off in the 78th minute when Sadio Mané produced a moment worthy of the occasion. The Al Nassr forward collected the ball outside the box and unleashed a low right-footed strike that arrowed into the bottom corner, leaving El Shenawy with no chance.

The goal sparked a frantic finale. Egypt threw everything forward in search of an equaliser, piling pressure on the Senegal defence in stoppage time. Zizo and Omar Marmoush both came close in the dying seconds, but Mendy stood firm, producing a crucial save to preserve Senegal’s narrow advantage.

When the final whistle sounded, Senegal held on to seal a famous win and end Egypt’s hopes of another AFCON final appearance.

The victory sends Senegal into the final with confidence soaring, underlining their growing reputation as one of Africa’s most complete sides. For Egypt, it was heartbreak once again, as their late push fell just short despite a spirited defensive display.

With one decisive strike, Senegal proved the difference between the two heavyweights, moving one step away from continental glory.