A 78th-minute goal from the Al-Nassr striker secured a 1-0 victory and Senegal’s place in the final against hosts Morocco, who saw off Nigeria on penalties.

The match was a repeat of the 2021 AFCON final, where Mane’s team emerged victorious with a 4-2 penalty shootout win after the tie had ended goalless.

Reflecting on the game, Mane said he felt his side were the deserved winners.

He said on CAFOnline: “From the start, we did it together. We avoided making individual errors or committing unnecessary fouls. I think we managed the game well from start to finish and, overall, we deserved to win.

“We have to be honest about the final and I think all the teams are amazing. We’ll see, and we’ll try to be ready for the final, above all to give our best.”

Senegal coach Pape Thiaw added that determination was key against a star-studded Egypt. He said: “We are very happy to have reached the final. It was not easy against a good side like Egypt.

“My players were determined to win the match and their determination showed on the pitch. I pay tribute to Egypt as they played well and gave us a very good match.

“Now we will focus on preparing for the final and will apply ourselves to it.”