Stars, tactics and key battles as two African powerhouses clash for a place in the AFCON 2025 final
The Africa Cup of Nations 2025 reaches a pivotal moment on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, when Senegal and Egypt go head-to-head in the first semi-final at the Grand Stade de Tanger in Morocco. Both sides have navigated tough opponents to reach this stage, setting up a blockbuster clash that could very well decide which giant of African football advances to the final. With elite talent lining up on both teams and continental pride on the line, fans around the world are gearing up for an intense showdown.
Senegal, winners of the 2021 AFCON, have looked strong and consistent throughout the tournament and boast a blend of experienced defenders such as Édouard Mendy and Kalidou Koulibaly alongside potent attackers like Sadio Mané and Iliman Ndiaye.
Egypt, meanwhile, are chasing a record-equalling eighth AFCON title and come into the match off the back of a thrilling 3-2 quarter-final victory over defending champions Ivory Coast – a match in which captain Mohamed Salah starred once again.
Much of the spotlight of this fixture will be precisely on Sadio Mané and Mohamed Salah, who formed an incredible partnership at Liverpool, only to see their relationship gradually drift apart in the years that followed.
Friends or foes?
Mo Salah and Sadio Mané once formed one of the most devastating wing partnerships in Europe at Liverpool.
Together they delivered the Premier League, Champions League, FA/League Cup, Club World Cup and UEFA Super Cup.
But then cracks appeared…#AFCON #LFC pic.twitter.com/S0RLhO1R3V
— BBSportNews (@BBSportNews24) January 13, 2026
How the teams go into the game: form
Senegal reached the semi-final after a tight 1-0 win over Mali in the quarter-finals – a result that emphasised their defensive discipline and tournament experience. The Lions of Teranga have used tournament momentum and tactical structure to suppress opponents effectively while still posing a threat on transition.
Egypt’s route to the last four was more electrifying, defeating Ivory Coast 3-2 in a high-scoring encounter. Mohamed Salah’s contributions were central, earning praise for his leadership and attacking sharpness as the Pharaohs seek to add another trophy to their illustrious history.
Head-to-head: Senegal vs Egypt
Historically, this fixture has produced memorable battles. The two sides have met repeatedly at AFCON, including the 2021 final – which Senegal won on penalties after a 0-0 draw. Across AFCON meetings, the teams are well matched, and the rivalry remains one of the most enduring in African football.
Team news: Senegal vs Egypt
Senegal head coach Pape Thiaw has few injury concerns heading into the semi-final. Key figures like Mendy are expected to start, providing a strong spine to the side. Their form and fitness look good, and the team will likely deploy a balanced approach to unsettle Egypt’s attack.
Egypt, led by coach Hossam Hassan, are also in good shape. Their attacking options are headlined by Salah, who has been in fine scoring form this tournament and carries the hopes of a nation eager to reclaim continental supremacy. Egypt’s defensive setup will no doubt be tested by Senegal’s pace and physicality.
When and where to watch in US & UK
Kick-off for Senegal vs Egypt is at 17:00 GMT (5 p.m. GMT) on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at the Tangier Grand Stadium in Morocco.
Fans in the UK can watch the game live on Channel 4’s E4, with pre-match coverage beginning ahead of kick-off and streaming available via All 4.
In the US, the match will be broadcast on beIN SPORTS, with live streaming accessible through beIN SPORTS Connect. Coverage typically includes expert commentary and pre-match analysis.
With a place in the final up for grabs, this first AFCON semi-final promises drama, tactical battles, and potentially decisive moments from Africa’s brightest football stars.