Senegal on Wednesday reminded Egypt once again that they are the Lions of Teranga, mauling the Pharaohs 1-0 to advance to the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 final.

At the Grand Stade de Tanger in Morocco, Senegal dominated the match, holding 65 percent possession compared to Egypt's 35 percent by the end of the game.

Sadio Mané scored the only goal in the 78th minute.

Egypt tried desperately to equalise but could not find the net.

It was a painful night for Mohamed Salah and his teammates, as the defeat echoed their loss to Senegal in the 2021 AFCON final, where the Teranga Lions clinched the trophy on penalties after a 0–0 draw following extra time.

Senegal now await the winners of the other semi-final between Nigeria and hosts Morocco.

The Pharaohs' hopes of lifting a record-extending eighth continental title must wait.

In a match filled with tension, tactical discipline, and moments of brilliance, it was Senegal’s talisman who rose to the occasion once more, delivering when it mattered most.

Both teams approached the game cautiously, aware of the high stakes and the fine margins that often decide knockout football.

Egypt, marshalled by their experienced defensive line and led by the ever-influential Salah, looked determined to control the tempo and frustrate their West African opponents.

Senegal, meanwhile, relied on their physical presence, quick transitions, and attacking intent.

For long periods, Senegal looked the better side, mounting attacks on Egypt and enjoying spells of possession, probing patiently while the Pharaohs sat back and absorbed the pressure.

The crowd was treated to a tactical chess match, with neither side willing to overcommit.

The breakthrough eventually came through Mané.

The Senegalese forward, known for his big-game mentality, produced a moment of quality that separated the two sides.

Picking up a deflected shot, he placed it into the bottom left-hand corner, shifting the momentum firmly in Senegal’s favour and sending waves of celebration through their supporters.