Egypt’s players expressed their bitter disappointment following a 1-0 defeat to Senegal in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) semi-finals on Wednesday, though the squad is forced to turn their focus immediately to securing a podium finish.
The Pharaohs were undone by a second-half strike from Sadio Mane, ending their hopes of a record-extending eighth continental title.
Despite the heartbreak, the players insisted they would fight to secure third place in their final outing of the tournament.
“We did our best during the match to secure the victory as we aimed to bring joy to the Egyptian people,” goalkeeper Mostafa Shobeir told BeIN Sports.
Egypt will face the loser of the second semi-final between hosts Morocco and Nigeria in the third-place play-off on Saturday.
Winger Ibrahim Adel echoed his teammate's frustration but remained defiant ahead of the weekend.
“We hoped to please the Egyptian fans tonight, but it wasn't to be. We will play the next game with everything we have to secure the best possible finish,” Adel said.
Morocco face Nigeria in the other semi-final later on Wednesday to determine who will meet Senegal in the final on Sunday.
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