Senegal Edges Egypt to Set Up AFCON Final Against Morocco

In a highly anticipated match, Sadio Mane outshone his former Liverpool teammate Mohamed Salah, scoring the winning goal that propelled Senegal into the Africa Cup of Nations final with a narrow 1-0 victory over Egypt. This encounter marked the first meeting between the two nations since their three clashes in 2022, which included Senegal's triumph over Egypt in a penalty shootout to claim the tournament title four years ago. Despite Salah's impressive record of scoring four goals prior to this semifinal match, he had a frustrating evening at Stade Ibn-Batouta, with his team managing only three shots, thus extending his wait for a continental title. Senegal quickly took control of the game but had to wait until 12 minutes from time for Mane to make his mark. After Lamine Camara's shot was blocked, the ball ricocheted to Mane, who chested it down before firing into the bottom corner, sparking jubilant celebrations. Egypt pushed for a late equalizer, and Omar Marmoush tested Edouard Mendy in stoppage time, but Senegal held on to secure a place in Sunday's final. It was a difficult night for Salah, who struggled to make any impact, failing to muster a single shot on goal and also failing to complete any take-ons. The forward will not be able to return to Anfield immediately, as Egypt will participate in the third-place playoff on Saturday, January 16. Meanwhile, host nation Morocco kept their cool to seal a 4-2 penalty shootout win over Nigeria, staying on course for their first Africa Cup of Nations title in 50 years. Morocco's maiden and only tournament triumph occurred in 1976, but Walid Regragui's team is within touching distance of glory again after goalkeeper Yassine Bounou starred with two saves. The hosts had enjoyed the better of the semifinal tie, with Nigeria restricted to only two shots across 120 minutes. Nigeria boss Eric Chelle made the surprise decision to take off captain Victor Osimhen two minutes before the shootout, which backfired when Samuel Chukwueze, one of two late substitutes sent on, was denied by Bounou. Bounou thwarted Bruno Onyemaechi next, allowing Youssef En-Nesyri the chance to send Morocco into the final, and he duly delivered to set up a meeting with Senegal on Sunday.