from MOHAMED EL KADIRI in Casablanca, Morocco
Morocco Bureau
CASABLANCA, (CAJ News) – LAST Wednesday night’s Africa Cup of Nations semi-finals delivered drama and decisive moments that set up a tantalising final on Sunday, January 18, between Senegal and hosts Morocco.
In Tangier, Senegal edged Egypt 1-0 thanks to a late strike from Sadio Mané, sending the Lions of Teranga back to the final stage of the tournament.
Senegal’s path to victory was defined by discipline and tactical balance.
The midfield, anchored by Pape Gueye and Idrissa Gueye, controlled tempo and transition, while Kalidou Koulibaly marshalled the defence with experience and authority.
Up front, Mané once again proved the difference in a tight contest, his composure in the box rewarded with the decisive goal.
This blend of physicality and tactical awareness has been Senegal’s hallmark throughout the tournament and will be crucial against Morocco’s organised unit.
In the second semi-final in Rabat, hosts Morocco emerged victorious over Nigeria in a tense duel that ended goalless after extra time and was decided on penalties.
Morocco prevailed 4–2 in the shootout, with goalkeeper Yassine Bounou making the key saves and Youssef En-Nesyri converting the decisive spot-kick.
Morocco’s strength comes from a disciplined spine.
In defence, Nayef Aguerd and Achraf Hakimi provide solidity and attacking intent from deep, while in midfield the duo of Bilal El Khannouss and Ismael Saibari combines control with clever distribution.
Up front, Ayoub El Kaabi and En-Nesyri offer aerial presence and finishing prowess.
Morocco’s resilience under pressure — particularly in front of passionate home support — will be tested again in the final.
For Nigeria and Egypt, the semi-final exits shift focus to ranking matches.
In the third-place play-off, Nigeria looks strongest to secure third position.
The Super Eagles reached the semi-final with the tournament’s highest goal tally and boast attacking threats in Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman.
Their offensive depth, if fired up again, should see them edge past an Egypt side that — despite Mohamed Salah’s brilliance — struggled to break down Senegal’s defence.
Egypt’s cohesion and tactical structure could nevertheless earn them fourth place if they tighten up at the back and provide Salah with adequate service.
Looking ahead to Sunday’s final, Senegal’s blend of seasoned international stars and physical midfield balance gives them a slight edge, but Morocco’s home advantage and tactical organisation make them formidable contenders.
Should Senegal dictate play through midfield control and quick transitions, they could unsettle Morocco’s structured defence.
Conversely, Morocco’s creative wide play and set-piece threat might tip the scales on home soil.
In a clash of strategy and resilience, fans can expect a fiercely competitive final full of tactical intrigue and high stakes.
– CAJ News