Senegal booked their place in the final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after grinding out a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Egypt in their semi-final clash in Tangier on Wednesday.

Former Liverpool forward Sadio Mané proved decisive late in the second half, unleashing a powerful long-range strike to finally break Egyptian resistance and keep Pape Thiaw’s side on course for a second continental crown.

The contest began with early tension, as both teams suffered disciplinary setbacks. Egypt defender Hossam Abdelmaguid and Senegal captain Kalidou Koulibaly were booked inside the opening exchanges, ruling them out of the final through accumulation. Senegal’s problems deepened in the 22nd minute when Koulibaly was forced off injured and replaced by youngster Mamadou Sarr.

Senegal gradually imposed themselves on the match and began to create openings after the half-hour mark. Habib Diarra and Pape Gueye both tested Mohamed El Shenawy, who produced smart saves to keep Egypt level, while Malick Diouf’s dangerous low cross shortly before the break was scrambled clear as the Pharaohs continued to absorb pressure.

The physical edge remained in the contest, with Diarra also picking up a booking in the 42nd minute, ruling him out of the final. Despite Senegal’s territorial dominance, neither side could find a breakthrough before the interval.

The pattern continued after the restart, with Senegal controlling possession and probing patiently as Egypt sat deep in a compact defensive block, offering little going forward but frustrating the Lions of Teranga.

Persistence finally paid off in the 77th minute. Mané found space outside the area and thundered a long-range effort beyond El Shenawy to ignite celebrations among the Senegalese support and tilt the contest decisively in their favour.

Senegal almost doubled their advantage moments later when Pape Gueye fired over from inside the box, while Egypt pushed desperately in the closing stages in search of an equaliser to force extra time. Senegal, however, remained composed and saw out the final minutes to seal a deserved victory.

The Lions of Teranga will now face hosts Morocco in Sunday’s final on January 18, with a second AFCON title firmly within reach.