Egypt superstar Mohamed Salah has warned Senegal that the Pharaohs are hitting peak form at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations ahead of their semi-final clash on Wednesday.
The seven-time African champions set up Wednesday’s heavyweight clash with Senegal after edging Côte d’Ivoire 3-2 in a thrilling quarter-final on Saturday night.
The impressive victory over the Elehpants ended the holders’ reign and underlining Egypt’s growing belief in Morocco as they seek to grab their eighth title.
Speaking after the victory, Salah said Egypt’s current training camp is the strongest environment he has experienced in his career — indicating that the team unity will be key in their clash against Senegal.
The Liverpool superstar’s message that will not go unnoticed by Senegal as his desire to to progress over the Teranga Lions to lift the title.
“This current camp is the best in my football career,” Salah said in the post match interview after the win over the Ivorians.
“I have won all the championships and I hope to win the Africa Cup of Nations.”
Salah’s influence was central to Egypt’s dramatic win over Côte d’Ivoire, a match that showcased the team’s resilience, depth and mental strength.
The Liverpool forward was named Man of the Match and insisted the award reflected the collective effort of the squad.
“The joy of the Egyptians is very important to me, and I am happy with the win and qualifying for the semi-finals,” he said.
“I am proud to be with this generation of players, and I am happy with the Best Player award as it is a crowning achievement for the entire team.”
Egypt’s triumph completed a gripping quarter-final stage that also saw Senegal defeat Mali, Morocco overcome Cameroon and Nigeria knock out Algeria, leaving four of Africa’s traditional heavyweights in the last four.
Despite Egypt’s pedigree and performance in the competition, Salah struck a note of caution ahead of the Senegal clash, acknowledging the quality and experience in Pape Thiaw’s squad.
“I cannot say that the Egyptian national team is 100% a candidate for the title,” he said.
“The Senegalese national team has many players in Europe, and we will strive to qualify for the final match.”
Still, Salah believes Egypt’s unity could prove decisive.
“Everyone within the national team is one family, starting with the staff and the players,” he added.
“We have great players in Europe and in the Egyptian league, and we always fight to win.”
The semi-final between Egypt and Senegal will be played on Wednesday, with hosts Morocco facing Nigeria in the other last-four encounter, as AFCON 2025 moves closer to its climax in Rabat.
