Salah Falls Short with Egypt Again, Set for Third Place Match at AFCON

In a heartbreaking 2025 AFCON semifinal clash on Wednesday, Mohamed Salah's Egypt suffered a 1-0 defeat to Senegal, courtesy of a late goal from former Liverpool teammate Sadio Mané. The match pitted two ex-Reds stars against each other, but it was Mané who proved decisive in the 78th minute, sending the Pharaohs crashing out and into the third-place showdown.[1]

Salah endured a forgettable night, registering no shots on target, zero successful dribbles, and being dispossessed 15 times—an uncharacteristic struggle for Liverpool's No. 11. A dangerous first-half cross found no takers, but Egypt's attack lacked creativity overall, managing just one shot on target while sitting deep defensively. Senegal dominated comfortably from start to finish.[1][2]

Egypt now faces Nigeria on Saturday for bronze, a rematch where Salah has historically struggled, scoring only once in three prior meetings against the Super Eagles' physical marking. Despite the setback, Salah remains in contention for the Golden Boot with four goals and one assist from the tournament. A strong showing could provide positive momentum before he returns to Liverpool, potentially missing league action but available for Champions League next week.[1]

This loss compounds Salah's AFCON heartbreak; despite Egypt's record seven titles, the 33-year-old captain has yet to lift the trophy. Egyptian media and fans ponder if this was his last chance, but with physical prime intact, a 2027 edition offers hope—if Egypt overhauls its tactics for sharper, more intense play.[2]

Salah departed for AFCON amid controversy after a post-match rant, so a fourth-place finish might not restore good vibes at Anfield. Fans hope he ends the adventure dynamically against Nigeria.[1]

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