Mane hails Senegal spirit after reaching AFCON final
Matchwinner Sadio Mane saluted Senegal's togetherness after it reached the Africa Cup of Nations final with victory over Egypt.
The Lions of Teranga are through to their third final in four editions, as Mane's 78th-minute strike sealed a 1-0 win in Tangier.
Senegal's reward is a showdown with Morocco in Monday's (AEDT) showpiece after the host got through a tough semi-final against Nigeria, winning in a penalty shootout after a tight 0-0 draw after extra-time.
"From the start, we did it together," Mane said. "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 and, above all, to give our best."
"We are very, very happy to have reached the final," Senegal coach Pape Thiaw said.
"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."
Egypt suffered its first semi-final defeat at the Africa Cup of Nations since 1974, when it lost 3-2 against DR Congo.
The seven-time champion registered just three shots throughout the match, its lowest total in a match in the competition since 2010, and the fewest by any side at this stage in that time.
It also failed to have a touch in the opposition box until the 84th minute in a stilted attacking display.
Nevertheless, head coach Hossam Hassan paid tribute to the efforts of his team.
"I am really proud of my players who really displayed good character against a tough opponent," he said.
"I have just told my players that I am proud of them because they defended the Egyptian flag and the Egyptian people with apt of courage.
"Senegal played very well, and I can't take anything away from them."
