(foto: Uradni Twitter profil kluba/zveze)
AFCON reaches the semi-finals as Senegal face Egypt and Morocco take on Nigeria, with Mohamed Salah chasing redemption after two painful eliminations.
Only four teams remain at this year’s Africa Cup of Nations, and they are all heavyweights. That guarantees two mouth-watering semi-finals, both scheduled for Wednesday. In the first clash, Senegal will face Egypt, while the second semi-final pits Morocco against Nigeria.
Senegal vs Egypt
Is it third time lucky for Mohamed Salah? Senegal, led by Sadio Mané, have already knocked Egypt out of major tournaments twice, and the Pharaohs are determined to finally turn the tables.
On paper, Senegal still look like favourites. They have been more prolific in front of goal at this AFCON and more solid defensively, while also boasting slightly greater squad depth. Alongside Mané, key figures include Ismaïla Sarr, Idrissa Gueye, Kalidou Koulibaly and goalkeeper Édouard Mendy.
Egypt’s hopes rest primarily on Salah and the in-form Omar Marmoush, who will need to produce something special to break Senegal’s resistance.
Morocco vs Nigeria
Morocco have been widely regarded as Africa’s strongest national side in recent years and are eager to confirm that status with another trophy. Awaiting them is a Nigeria team packed with attacking talent, including Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze, Alex Iwobi and, above all, Victor Osimhen. Despite that quality, Nigeria struggled badly in World Cup qualifying, which has raised questions about their consistency.
Morocco will once again rely on Achraf Hakimi, but also on Abde Ezzalzouli, Nayef Aguerd, Noussair Mazraoui and Brahim Díaz. Experience in goal comes from Bono, while the bench is equally strong, featuring names like En-Nesyri, Amrabat and Rahimi.
With four giants still standing, AFCON is set for a thrilling conclusion. The big question now is whether Salah can finally overcome his Senegal curse—or if history will repeat itself once again.