CAN 2025: Here’s why Senegal is on track to win the tournament | OneFootball

Kalidou Koulibaly

In just two days, Senegal will face Egypt in the semi-finals of CAN 2025. The Lions of Teranga, strong favorites for the trophy, now see the title not as a distant dream, but as the logical next step given their journey, the opposition ahead, and the depth of the Senegalese project. Here’s why they’re primed for glory.

Since the start of this CAN 2025 campaign, Senegal has shown a conquering spirit. In the group stage, Pape Thiaw’s Lions swept aside Botswana with a resounding 3-0 victory—a no-nonsense opener marked by defensive discipline and clinical finishing. Against DR Congo, Senegal was held to a 1-1 draw, the only match where the team was genuinely pushed to its limits. The wake-up call was quickly answered with another 3-0 win, this time over Benin.

In the knockout rounds, Senegal raised their game even further. The round of 16 clash against Sudan was handled with authority, resulting in a 3-1 win. In the quarter-finals against Mali, the Lions delivered a tighter, more tactical affair—a hard-fought 1-0 victory built on patience and resilience.

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A Senegal squad with balance in every position

Few teams can boast the squad depth of Senegal’s national team. Every position is covered by at least two, sometimes three quality players. In goal, Edouard Mendy brings the experience of major tournaments. At the back, Kalidou Koulibaly remains the undisputed leader. In midfield, Idrissa Gana Gueye embodies tactical intelligence and experience. Up front, Sadio Mané continues to be the technical and mental leader.

Around these pillars, a new generation is emerging fearlessly. Ibrahim Mbaye, Lamine Camara, and Nicolas Jackson represent the future, but are already shining in the present. This blend of experience and youth gives Senegal a clear edge.

The hunger of a pride of Lions

Finally, this CAN 2025 is also a matter of redemption for Senegal. Their early exit in CAN 2023, knocked out in the round of 16 by Ivory Coast, still stings for the Lions of Teranga. That setback left a mark, but most importantly, it fueled a renewed determination.

On Wednesday, Senegal meets a very familiar opponent in the semi-final: none other than Mohamed Salah’s Egypt. Kick-off is set for 17:00 GMT.

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