On a tense, emotionally charged night in Tangier, Sadio Mané once again delivered on the biggest stage, firing Senegal into the Africa Cup of Nations final with a decisive 78th-minute goal that ended Mohamed Salah’s hopes of lifting the trophy.

The narrow 1–0 victory at the Grand Stade de Tanger sends the defending champions into their third AFCON final in four tournaments, while Egypt are left to reflect on another painful semi-final exit.

A semi-final decided by one moment

For much of the contest, Egypt defended deep and in numbers, limiting Senegal’s attacking rhythm and appearing content to drag the match towards penalties. Senegal dominated possession but struggled to convert pressure into clear chances.

That changed in the 78th minute. Mané picked up the ball just outside the box, shifted the angle and struck cleanly, sending the Senegal supporters inside the stadium into raptures. It was Senegal’s first shot on target — and the one that mattered.

Leaders step up for Senegal

Questions had been raised before the tournament about Mané’s role in this Senegal side, but once again he answered with quality and composure. While no longer at his explosive peak, his influence remains decisive.

Behind him, goalkeeper Edouard Mendy was assured under late pressure, while Kalidou Koulibaly and Idrissa Gana Gueye helped Senegal close out the match with experience and authority.

Egypt’s cautious approach backfires

Egypt’s strategy focused heavily on defensive solidity, offering little in attack for long periods. Their reluctance to commit numbers forward left them with few answers once they fell behind.

A late surge brought crosses, corners and long-range efforts, but Senegal remained composed. Salah’s long wait for an AFCON title continues, and scrutiny of Egypt’s conservative approach is likely to intensify.

What this result means

Senegal now advance to the AFCON final, where they will face the winner of Nigeria vs Morocco — a showdown previewed in our earlier coverage: Nigeria vs Morocco: AFCON Semi-Final preview .

For Senegal, the chance to retain their continental crown is alive. For Egypt, another tournament ends in frustration, with rebuilding questions once again looming.

Full-time score

Senegal 1–0 Egypt
Goal: Mané (78’)
Competition: Africa Cup of Nations semi-final
Venue: Grand Stade de Tanger