Tangier, Jan 14: Egypt will face Senegal in the semi-final of the TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 at the Tangier Grand Stadium on Wednesday, with a place in the final on the line.
Two of Africa’s strongest football nations meet once again on the big stage. Egypt, the most successful team in AFCON history, are chasing a return to the summit, while Senegal are aiming to maintain their recent dominance at continental level.
Meetings between these two continental heavyweights have always been closely contested. Across 15 previous encounters, Egypt hold a slight advantage with seven wins, compared to Senegal’s five, while three matches ended in draws. At AFCON level, the rivalry is even tighter, with two wins each and one draw from five meetings.
Their most recent AFCON meeting came in the 2021 final in Yaoundé. On that night, Senegal celebrated their first-ever continental title, while Egypt suffered another painful defeat in their long wait for an eighth crown since their last triumph in 2010. The final finished goalless after extra time before Senegal edged the contest in a dramatic penalty shoot-out.
Since lifting the trophy in 2010, Egypt have endured final defeats in 2017 and 2021, which has only strengthened their determination to return to the top. In Morocco, the Pharaohs have moved forward with quiet confidence, improving with each match.
Their thrilling 3–2 quarter-final victory over defending champions Côte d’Ivoire sent a strong message across the continent, underlining Egypt’s ambition to claim a record-extending eighth AFCON title. Earlier, they topped their group with two wins and a draw, before defeating Benin 3–1 in the Round of 16.
Mohamed Salah has been central to Egypt’s impressive run. Still chasing his first AFCON title, the Liverpool forward has scored four goals and provided one assist so far. His leadership and attacking threat will once again be crucial in the semi-final.
Senegal, meanwhile, have progressed with control and discipline. Having played all their matches in Tangier, they enjoy familiarity with the stadium and conditions. The Lions of Teranga edged past Mali 1–0 in the quarter-finals and have relied on teamwork and defensive solidity.
Captain Sadio Mané remains Senegal’s key figure, offering experience and creativity even when not on the scoresheet. His duel with Salah adds extra intrigue to a semi-final where fine margins could decide the outcome.
With history, pride and a place in the AFCON final at stake, Wednesday’s clash promises a tense and compelling contest under the Tangier lights.
Source: CAF
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