Picture credit: Getty Images
By Crystal Ugoeze
Senegal booked their place in the final of the 2026 Africa Cup of Nations after edging Egypt 1–0 in Wednesday’s semi-final, thanks to a late strike from Sadio Mané.
The tightly contested encounter at the Grand Stade de Tanger appeared destined for extra time before Mané produced a moment of brilliance in the 78th minute to settle the tie. The forward’s goal sparked wild celebrations among Senegal supporters and underlined his enduring importance to the defending champions.
The first half ended goalless, with both sides cancelling each other out in a cautious contest. Egypt adopted a deep defensive approach, limiting Senegal’s attacking threat while offering little going forward.
Senegal gradually increased the pressure after the break, with Mané at the centre of most of their attacking moves. His decisive goal eventually forced Egypt to abandon their defensive posture, but the Pharaohs struggled to create clear chances despite late pressure.
Goalkeeper Edouard Mendy was called into action in the closing stages and safely dealt with Egypt’s final attempts, including a long-range strike from Omar Marmoush deep into added time.
The victory sends Senegal into their third AFCON final in the last four editions of the tournament. The 2021 champions will face either Nigeria or host nation Morocco in Sunday’s final.
For Egypt and captain Mohamed Salah, the wait for a first Africa Cup of Nations title continues, as another campaign ends at the semi-final stage.