Sadio Mane fired Senegal into the Africa Cup of Nations final with a late winner as they defeated Egypt 1–0 in the semi-finals.
Mané struck 12 minutes from full time, capping a dominant Senegal performance and setting up a final clash with hosts Morocco.
Senegal Dominates Egypt
Senegal controlled the match from the outset, pinning Egypt deep and denying Mohamed Salah’s side any attacking momentum. Egypt failed to register a shot on target or earn a corner before conceding.
The decisive moment came when Lamine Camara’s blocked shot fell kindly to Mane, who drilled a low effort past Mohamed El Shenawy.
“I was a bit lucky… the ball came from nowhere,” Mane said. “I instinctively took a first-time shot.”
Late Egyptian Response Falls Short
Before the goal, Senegal had sustained pressure without creating many clear chances. Nicolas Jackson, Habib Diarra, and Pape Gueye all had attempts saved or missed.
Egypt only showed urgency after falling behind. A late triple substitution brought little reward, with Omar Marmoush’s stoppage-time shot comfortably saved by Edouard Mendy.
“We totally deserved this victory,” said defender Moussa Niakhate.
Senegal will be without Kalidou Koulibaly and Diarra in the final due to suspension.
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