From drought to drama: Egypt’s goalless half in AFCON semifinal against Senegal
14 January 2026
Egypt's rare goalless first half vs Senegal
Egypt's national team posted a rare negative stat against Senegal in the Africa Cup of Nations semifinal in Morocco.
According to Opta, Egypt finished the first half without a single shot on target against Senegal.
They became the first AFCON semifinalist to fail to shoot in the first 45 minutes.
Senegal dominance and the second half to come
Senegal clearly controlled the game in the opening period, holding about 70% of possession to Egypt's 30%.
They fired four shots, two on target, saved by Egypt's goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy with steady hands.
Despite Egypt's notable attacking absence, led by Mohamed Salah, the halftime score remained goalless, leaving the tie wide open for the second half.
If the script holds, the second half could rewrite the narrative, with either side triggering a crucial moment that could decide the tie.
Sniper note: if goals were bullets, Egypt ran out of ammo in the first half. Sniper note 2: Senegal's defense is so sharp the scoreboard begged for mercy.
