Sadio Mané struck the only goal of the game with 12 minutes remaining to give Senegal a 1-0 victory over Egypt in the Africa Cup of Nations semi-final on Wednesday, once again getting the better of his former Liverpool team-mate Mohamed Salah. The win sets up a final showdown with tournament hosts Morocco on Sunday.
The match was a dour affair, marred by fouls, time-wasting and feigned injuries, with little attacking quality on display. Egypt adopted a deep defensive approach, with three centre-backs and two deep-lying midfielders, showing almost no ambition to attack. Senegal dominated possession with nearly two-thirds of the ball but struggled to create clear chances against a resolute Egyptian defence.
The breakthrough came when Lamine Camara’s shot struck Hamdy Fathy and spun to Mané, who controlled it and smashed a ferocious shot past goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy from just outside the box. Egypt appealed for handball and offside, but the goal was correctly awarded, ending their hopes of reaching the final.
Senegal’s victory came at a cost, with captain Kalidou Koulibaly and midfielder Habib Diarra both picking up yellow cards that rule them out of the final through suspension. Koulibaly also went off injured in the first half. Despite these losses, Senegal will be favourites to lift the trophy against Morocco, who have impressed as hosts.
Egypt’s cautious approach drew criticism, with former goalkeeper Essam El Hadary among those questioning manager Hossam Hassan’s tactics. Hassan himself complained about Senegal having an extra day to prepare and being able to stay in Tangier throughout the tournament, but his team’s lack of attacking intent was evident throughout the semi-final.
