A combination of pictures created on January 13, 2026 shows Egypt's forward #10 Mohamed Salah (L) during the Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) in Agadir on January 5, 2026 and Senegal's forward #10 Sadio Mane. AFP
Unbeaten Egypt face a stern challenge on Wednesday when they take on Senegal in the Africa Cup of Nations semi-final as the Pharaohs bid to reach the final and keep alive their dream of an eighth continental title.
Egypt secured a deserved 3-2 victory over defending champions Ivory Coast in Saturday’s quarter-final and are now eyeing their first AFCON crown since 2010.
Buoyed by their performance against the Ivorians, Egypt believe they have earned the right to dream of lifting the trophy.
“The game against Senegal will not be easy, but we are ready,” Egypt coach Hossam Hassan said at a pre-match news conference.
“We respect all opponents, and that has been the secret of our success so far.”
Egypt, like the other three teams remaining, are unbeaten in the tournament, winning four of their five matches and drawing one after Hassan fielded a second-string side against Angola once qualification for the last 16 had been secured.
Hassan is expected to stick with the same tactical approach that proved effective against Ivory Coast, relying on defensive organization and quick counter-attacks, and may name an unchanged starting line-up following what he described as a heroic quarter-final display.
However, Egypt will need to be wary of a seasoned Senegal side making their fourth consecutive semi-final appearance.
With attacking threats such as Sadio Mane, Ismaila Sarr and Iliman Ndiaye, the margins for error are slim.
“We know we are facing a very strong team that is used to these kinds of matches,” Senegal coach Pape Thiaw said.
“But we are determined to win and reach the final while staying true to our playing philosophy. We are approaching this match with respect and ambition.”
Senegal reached the semis following a 1-0 win over Mali in the quarters on Friday.
No revenge
Senegal beat Egypt on penalties in the final of the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations and repeated the feat weeks later in the World Cup qualifying play-offs, but Hassan dismissed any talk of revenge or a psychological barrier.
“I don’t believe Senegal are a jinx for us,” he said.
“We are the record holders of this tournament with seven titles.
“Opponents should fear us. We are ready technically and mentally.”
Egypt winger Mahmoud Hassan, known as Trezeguet, echoed his coach’s sentiments.
“There is no revenge in football,” he said.
“Our history shows that we are one of the strongest teams on the continent. We treat every match as a final, and Senegal will be no different. We hope to overcome them and reach the final.” he concluded.
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