An own goal from Amr El-Sulaya with the last kick of the game broke Egypt's hearts and sent Tunisia through to the final against either Algeria or hosts Qatar, who meet in the other semi-final clash later in the day.

The Ahly midfielder miscued an attempted clearance and powerfully headed the ball past his own goalkeeper following a corner deep four minutes into stoppage time, sparking wild celebrations among Tunisia's players.

"Luck was not on our side today. The luckier team won," Queiroz, who came under fire for his team selection, told reporters after the game.

Egypt and Tunisia both struggled for openings in a cagey affair, although the Pharaohs were guilty of a glaring miss with 15 minutes remaining when substitute Mostafa Fathi volleyed high over with the goal at his mercy.

"We had three chances, including one when two players were clear on goal, but we couldn't score," Queiroz added.

"Tunisia scored from a set piece that resulted in an own goal."

Egypt will still play for the third place on Saturday but Queiroz's next real task will be the African Cup of Nations, which kicks off next month in Cameroon.

The team were drawn in Group D of the biennial tournament along with Nigeria, Sudan and Guinea-Bissau.

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