The highly anticipated clash between Egypt and Senegal lived up to its billing as a tense, tactical battle decided by a single moment of brilliance. In a match dominated by midfield control, defensive discipline, and flashes of attacking quality, Senegal edged Egypt 1–0 thanks to a decisive second-half strike from Sadio Mané.
From the opening whistle, Senegal looked composed and confident on the ball. Their passing rhythm was sharp, with long spells of possession that made Egypt work hard without the ball. Idrissa Gueye, Habib Diarra, and Iliman Ndiaye combined well in midfield, recycling possession and probing for gaps, while Egypt stayed compact and disciplined, waiting for counterattacking opportunities through Mohamed Salah.
Egypt showed early intent with neat passing sequences, particularly down the right flank, but Senegal’s defensive line remained well organised. Kalidou Koulibaly marshalled the backline confidently before being forced off through injury midway through the first half, a moment that briefly unsettled Senegal’s structure. Despite that setback, Senegal continued to control the tempo, forcing Egypt into deeper positions.
The first half was physical and competitive, with several fouls and yellow cards disrupting the flow. Mohamed El Shenawy was called into action a few times but dealt comfortably with Senegal’s long-range efforts, while Egypt struggled to register clear chances, often seeing their final passes intercepted. Mohamed Salah tried to inject urgency with crosses and forward runs, but Senegal’s defence read the danger well.
After the break, Senegal emerged with even greater authority. Their possession dominance increased, and Egypt found it difficult to relieve pressure. Crosses from El Hadji Malick Diouf and Lamine Camara repeatedly tested Egypt’s defensive shape, while Nicolas Jackson and Iliman Ndiaye hovered dangerously around the edge of the box.
The breakthrough finally came in the 78th minute. Sadio Mané picked up the ball just outside the penalty area, shifted it onto his stronger foot, and unleashed a precise strike that curled inside the left post. Mohamed El Shenawy was rooted to the spot as the ball nestled into the net, sending the Senegalese bench and supporters into celebration. It was a goal worthy of deciding such a tight contest — calm, clinical, and perfectly timed.
Following the goal, Egypt attempted to respond with urgency. Substitutions were made to add fresh legs and attacking thrust, including the introduction of Mostafa Mohamed and Zizo. Mohamed Salah continued to push forward, delivering corners and passes into the box, but Senegal defended resolutely, blocking crosses and winning key aerial duels.
Senegal, meanwhile, managed the closing stages intelligently. They slowed the tempo, maintained possession, and used substitutions to break Egypt’s rhythm. Even in stoppage time, Egypt struggled to create a clear-cut opportunity, with their final deliveries either overhit or comfortably dealt with by Senegal’s defence.
When the referee blew for full time, it confirmed a hard-earned 1–0 victory for Senegal. The result reflected their control of possession, tactical discipline, and ability to produce quality in decisive moments. Sadio Mané once again proved his importance on the big stage, delivering when it mattered most.
For Egypt, the defeat was frustrating. Their defensive organisation kept them in the game for long periods, but a lack of cutting edge in the final third ultimately cost them. Senegal, on the other hand, will take great confidence from a performance that showcased patience, maturity, and championship mentality in a tightly contested encounter.
