Late Strike, Big Dreams: Senegal Reach AFCON Final
14 January 2026
Match recap
Senegal's star Sadio Mane expressed his joy at reaching the Africa Cup of Nations final after a 1-0 win over Egypt in the semi-final on Wednesday night.
Mane struck the decisive goal in the 78th minute, finding the net past Egypt's goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy.
The Al Nassr forward earned the Man of the Match award as he steered his side toward the final.
Speaking to reporters after the game, Mane said Senegal deserved to qualify and had pressed hard to breach Egypt's defense.
He noted that his team had been the more dangerous side, making the most of their experiences to seize the opportunity and score.
He added that he used the space available to fire a powerful shot into the net, a moment that crowned the team's collective effort.
Looking ahead to the final, Mane said he would fight to lift the title, recalling Senegal's sole AFCON triumph in 2021.
Punchlines: If Mane keeps this form, the trophy might need a passport. And blink twice, and you’ll miss the next goal—that’s Mane-ic speed.
