Senegal moves to the finals of the 2025 Africa Cups of Nations after a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Egypt in Wednesday’s semi-final.

Senegal dominated in possession against Egypt but found it difficult to break down their defense. The breakthrough came in the 78 minutes as Lamine Carmara’s effort from the edge of the box was blocked, but the loose ball fell to Sadio Mane, who immediately shot the ball low past goalkeeper Mohammed El Shenawy.

Before Senegal scored, chances were few despite their dominance. On the 19th minute, Nicolas Jackson made an attempt, as the shot fired went over the top of the post, while efforts from Habib Diarra and Pape Gueye were comfortably dealt with by Egypt goalkeeper. The pattern of play continued after the halftime break, with Senegal making attempts patiently but mostly avoided long-range attempts.

Egypt were forced to react once Senegal took the lead, throwing on three attackers in a desperate move to equalize. However, their only real opportunity came deep into stoppage time when the Man city winger, Omar Marmoush shot the ball towards goal but was saved by the Senegalese goalkeeper, Edouard Mendy.

After the match, the Al-Nassr winger Sadio Mane when asked about the goal admitted there was an element of luck. “I was a bit lucky because the ball came from nowhere,” he said. “it hit my stomach, fell well for me, and I instinctively hit it first time.”

Senegal defender Moussa Niakhate was full of praise for his team’s performance. “We totally deserved this victory,” he said. “We stopped them from playing their game and imposed our own style. At this level, when we play like this, we are very strong.”

The win sends Senegal into the Sunday’s final, where they will face either the AFCON hosts Morocco or Nigeria as their continue their push for continental glory.

Senegal Vs Egypt Match Stats