Egypt vs Senegal: AFCON Semifinal – Team News, Start Time and Lineups. Tangier, Morocco — January 12, 2026 The highly anticipated Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) semifinal between Egypt and Senegal is set to take place at the Ibn Batouta Stadium in Tangier, Morocco, on Wednesday at 6pm (17:00 GMT). This clash promises to be a thrilling encounter between two of Africa’s football powerhouses.
Superstar Mohamed Salah is on the brink of achieving his dream of winning the AFCON with Egypt, as the Pharaohs aim for a record — extending eighth continental title.
The 33-year-old forward, who has already won numerous titles with Liverpool, is looking to add Africa’s most coveted prize to his collection. Salah, a two-time AFCON runner-up, will face a formidable challenge from Senegal, who are making their third appearance in the semifinals in the last four editions.
Senegal, ranked 19th in the world, boasts a talented squad featuring stars like Sadio Mane and Kalidou Koulibaly.
The Teranga Lions topped Group D with an unbeaten record in the group stage and showcased their strength by overcoming Sudan 3-1 in the round of 16 and Mali 1-0 in the quarterfinals. Egypt, another pre-tournament favorite, finished top of Group B with a similar record.
They defeated Benin 3-1 in the round of 16 and the Ivory Coast 3-2 in a thrilling quarterfinal.
Striker Nicolas Jackson and central midfielder Pape Gueye have been instrumental for Senegal, each scoring two goals, while Cherif Ndiaye added two more off the bench.
On the Egyptian side, Salah leads the tournament’s top scorers with four goals, while Manchester City forward Omar Marmoush has contributed two.
The Pharaohs’defense is anchored by center back Rami Rabia and midfielder Hamdi Fathi.
The two teams have faced each other 15 times in the past, with Egypt holding a slight edge with seven wins to Senegal’s six, and two draws. Their last meeting was in a FIFA World Cup qualifying playoff in March 2022, which Senegal won 3-1 on penalties.
Senegal coach Pape Thiaw has no new injury concerns, but Egypt’s Mohamed Hamdi is unavailable due to an injury sustained in the round of 16.
Otherwise, coach Hossam Hassan has a fit squad.
The winner of this match will advance to face the victor of the second semifinal between Nigeria and host nation Morocco.
Further details are expected as the teams prepare for what promises to be a memorable encounter.
