The stage is set for an exhilarating semifinal clash as Egypt faces off against Senegal in the CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). This highly anticipated match will take place at the Ibn Batouta Stadium in Tangier, Morocco, on Wednesday at 6 p.m. (17:00 GMT). Football fans can catch all the action with pre-match coverage starting at 14:00 GMT on Al Jazeera Sport.
Egypt, led by superstar Mohamed Salah, is eager to capture its record-extending eighth AFCON title. Despite an illustrious club career with Liverpool, where Salah has won the Premier League and Champions League, the Africa Cup of Nations has remained elusive for the talented forward. Having been a two-time runner-up in the tournament, this semifinal presents another opportunity for Salah and the Pharaohs to claim glory.
Senegal, currently ranked 19th worldwide and boasting a wealth of talent, is considered a formidable opponent. The Teranga Lions have reached the semifinals for the third time in the last four AFCON tournaments, showcasing their competitive edge. With stars like Sadio Mane and Kalidou Koulibaly, Senegal has the depth and skill necessary to challenge for the title.
Both teams have shown strong form on their journeys to the semifinals. Senegal topped Group D with seven points, remaining unbeaten, and advanced past the round of 16 after defeating Sudan 3-1. They secured their place in the semifinals with a narrow 1-0 victory over Mali in the quarterfinals. Egypt mirrored this performance, also finishing atop their group with seven points before eliminating Benin 3-1 in the round of 16 and reigning champions Ivory Coast with a thrilling 3-2 win in the quarterfinals.
The victor of this encounter will earn a place in the AFCON final, facing the winner of the second semifinal between Nigeria and the host nation, Morocco.
Senegal’s squad features key players including striker Nicolas Jackson and central midfielder Pape Gueye, both of whom have scored two goals in the tournament. Veteran winger Mane adds vital experience, while young sensation Ibrahim Mbaye exhibits remarkable maturity on the field.
Egypt’s attack is spearheaded by Salah, who is currently the tournament’s top scorer with four goals. The Liverpool star appears to be returning to his best form, aiming to fulfill his ambition of lifting the AFCON trophy. Alongside him, Manchester City forward Omar Marmoush and a solid defense, led by Rami Rabia and Hamdi Fathi, promise a well-rounded Egyptian squad.
Historically, Egypt holds a slight advantage in their head-to-head record against Senegal, with seven wins compared to Senegal’s six, alongside two draws. The last encounter between the two teams was in March 2022 during the FIFA World Cup qualifying playoffs, where Senegal triumphed 3-1 on penalties after a tense showdown.
As both teams prepare for this critical match, fans can look forward to what promises to be an unforgettable encounter, filled with intensity and high stakes.