Sports
Mane fires Senegal into AFCON 2025 final with narrow win over Egypt
Senegal have secured a place in the final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) after edging Egypt 1-0 in a tense semi-final encounter at the Grand Stadium, Tangier, Morocco, on Wednesday.
Liverpool star Sadio Mane emerged as the match-winner, scoring the decisive goal to send Pape Thiaw’s side into another continental final.
The Teranga Lions dominated a largely uneventful first half but suffered a setback when captain Kalidou Koulibaly was forced off with an injury, casting doubt over his availability for the final.
Egypt struggled to find rhythm throughout the opening period and failed to register a single shot on target, as Senegal’s defence stood firm. The first half ended in frustration for the Pharaohs, with tempers flaring on the touchline as players from both sides were involved in a brief confrontation.
The breakthrough came in the second half when Mane unleashed a powerful shot from about 20 yards, leaving Egyptian goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy rooted as the ball flew into the net.
The goal effectively ended Egypt’s quest for a record-extending eighth AFCON title and dashed the hopes of captain Mohamed Salah, who endured a quiet outing.
At the final whistle, Senegal confirmed their place in the AFCON final for the second time in the last three tournaments, having won the title in 2021.
They will now face either Nigeria or hosts Morocco in Sunday’s final, scheduled for January 18, as they chase another continental crown.
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