Sadio Mane’s 78th-minute goal secured Senegal a 1-0 victory over Egypt, booking their place in Sunday’s Africa Cup of Nations final against Morocco.
Senegal narrowly beat seven-time champions Egypt in Tangier, thanks to a great play from Mane. The two-time African Footballer of the Year scored with a low shot into the bottom corner after Lamine Camara’s first attempt was blocked. The goal brought joy to the Teranga Lions’ fans, who had seen their team control the ball but have trouble getting past Egypt’s strong defense.
However, the win had a downside. Captain Kalidou Koulibaly will miss the final after getting a yellow card for a tactical foul on Omar Marmoush in the 17th minute, and then leaving the game injured in the 23rd. Mamadou Sarr came on as Senegal changed their defense. Koulibaly had already missed a group-stage match because of suspension, and this new injury means his tournament is over.
Senegal had chances from Nicolas Jackson, Habib Diarra, and Pape Gueye, but Egypt’s goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy made key saves. Tensions rose when Mohamed Salah fouled his old Liverpool teammate Mane, but both coaches, Pape Thiaw and Hossam Hassan, stepped in to calm things down. Diarra received a yellow card for dissent and will also miss the final.
Egypt’s best chance was a dangerous free kick from Salah before halftime that missed everyone in the box. As the game went on, the Pharaohs did not manage a shot on target or win a corner, instead focusing on their defense.
Senegal’s hard work paid off with 12 minutes to go. Camara’s deflected shot landed at Mane’s feet, and he scored the winning goal past El Shenawy. In stoppage time, Egypt’s Marmoush tried to score, but his shot was saved, sending Senegal to the final.
Senegal, who won the title in 2021, will play Morocco in Rabat on Sunday as they try to win the AFCON trophy again.