AFCON 2025: Egypt coach Hassan wary of Senegal ahead of showdown

Egypt coach Hossam Hassan has warned his players against underrating Senegal when the two sides face off in the semi-finals of the Africa Cup of Nations on Wednesday.

“Senegal is not a bogey team for the Egyptian national team. We are seven-time African champions, and there is no such thing as a bogey team in football.

“Anyone who faces the Egyptian national team plays with fear in their heart, and the provocative videos circulated about us motivate us before matches.

“We approach this semi-final with great respect for our opponent, but also with great preparation. We are mentally ready. We know the team we are facing and we also know our strengths.

“Each team has its own way of playing, its own strategy, and we have prepared accordingly.”

The winner of a knockout clash between Senegal and Egypt has always been crowned African champions, a scenario that has occurred twice, in 2006 and 2021.

Their last AFCON meeting came in the 2021 final, the only match between the nations to end in a draw, with Senegal winning their first title after prevailing on penalties following a 0–0 draw.