Sadio Mané struck the decisive goal as defending champions Senegal booked their place in the final of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 with a hard-fought victory over Egypt, ending Mohamed Salah’s quest for continental glory.
In a tense semi-final played before a packed stadium, Senegal edged past the seven-time champions with a moment of quality that underlined their pedigree on the big stage. Mané, the Al-Nassr forward and Senegal’s talisman, broke the deadlock midway through the second half, latching onto a quick transition before firing past Egypt goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy.
The opening exchanges were cagey, with both sides showing respect for each other’s attacking threat. Egypt, marshalled by Salah, looked to control possession and exploit space on the counter, while Senegal relied on their physicality, pressing, and pace out wide.
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Chances were at a premium in the first half, as disciplined defending and strong goalkeeping kept the scoreline blank.
After the break, Senegal raised the tempo and were rewarded. A swift move through midfield caught Egypt off guard, allowing Mané just enough room to strike clinically. The goal sparked jubilant celebrations among the Senegalese supporters and put Egypt on the back foot.
Salah tried to inspire a response, testing Senegal’s defence with his movement and creativity, but clear-cut opportunities were limited. Senegal’s back line held firm under late pressure, while goalkeeper Edouard Mendy produced a crucial save in the closing minutes to preserve the lead.
The final whistle confirmed Senegal’s progression to another AFCON final, keeping alive their hopes of another title win. For Egypt, it was a bitter disappointment, as Salah and his teammates fell just short of a return to the final.
Senegal will now turn their attention to the championship match, confident and battle-hardened, while Egypt must regroup after another near miss on the continental stage.