AFCON:Late Mané Thunderbolt Books Senegal’s Final Ticket Against Egypt
2 min read
By Sedara Philip
Senegal booked their place in the final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after a decisive late strike from Sadio Mané secured a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Egypt in Wednesday night’s opening semi-final encounter.
The tense showdown at the Tangier Grand Stadium was settled in the 78th minute when Mané unleashed a low, powerful shot from distance that beat Egyptian goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy, sparking celebrations among the Lions of Teranga faithful.
In what was a tightly contested and highly tactical affair, chances were few and far between as both sides cancelled each other out for long periods. The breakthrough came after Lamine Diarra’s speculative effort deflected into Mané’s path, and the Senegalese talisman reacted quickest, driving the ball home from about 20 yards to finally break the deadlock.
The encounter carried heavy historical significance, with Egypt seeking revenge for their heartbreak against Senegal in the 2021 AFCON final, where they lost on penalties, and their subsequent elimination by the same opponents in the 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. Much like that final, Wednesday’s clash was defined by discipline, patience and defensive solidity.
Senegal, however, appeared the more composed side, enjoying greater possession and territorial control. Their defensive unit delivered an outstanding performance, effectively neutralising Egypt’s attacking threats. West Ham United fullback El Hadji Malick Diouf was particularly impressive, keeping Egyptian talisman Mohamed Salah largely quiet throughout the contest.
Egypt struggled to impose themselves going forward, registering just a single shot on target for the entire match. As fatigue set in due to prolonged spells without the ball, the Pharaohs increasingly appeared content to drag the game into a penalty shootout. But Senegal’s persistent pressure eventually told.
Mané’s moment of brilliance proved decisive, and despite a late push from Egypt, the seven-time AFCON champions lacked the energy and cutting edge to breach Senegal’s well-organised defence.
With the victory, the Lions of Teranga march into another AFCON final and will now await the winner of the second semi-final between Nigeria and tournament hosts Morocco. The championship match is scheduled for Sunday in Rabat, where Senegal will look to add another continental crown to their growing legacy.
Sedara Philip is a Sports writer, an administrator,Journalist,and editor
