Efficiency and focus key as Trezeguet backs Pharaohs for Senegal showdown
Egypt will lock horns with Senegal in a high-stakes semi-final of the TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Morocco 2025 on Wednesday evening in Tangier, as the Pharaohs continue their pursuit of a record-extending eighth continental crown.
Throughout the tournament, Egypt have steadily underlined their title credentials, blending resilience with experience on the biggest stage.
Their thrilling 3–2 quarter-final victory over Côte d’Ivoire was a powerful statement of intent; an illustration of a side driven by ambition, belief and an unrelenting hunger for success.
As they step into the semi-final, the Pharaohs carry the weight of history, but also the quiet confidence that defines great teams when margins are razor-thin. At this stage, reputation alone counts for little; survival depends on composure, precision and the ability to deliver when it matters most.
Few understand that reality better than Mahmoud “Trezeguet” Hassan. A key voice in the Egyptian dressing room throughout the campaign, the forward believes the duel with the Lions of Teranga will be decided by details; moments of concentration, ruthless efficiency, and collective discipline.
Facing a Senegal side equally rich in quality and ambition, Egypt know that every duel, every transition and every opportunity could prove decisive. In a semi-final where mistakes are unforgiving, only clarity of thought, clinical finishing and emotional control will keep the dream alive.
Speaking to CAFOnline.com on the eve of the clash, Trezeguet offered insight into the mindset of a group fully aware of the challenge ahead—and ready to meet it head-on, with focus sharpened and belief intact.
CAFOnline: How do you assess Egypt’s preparation for this semi-final against Senegal, especially after a series of very closely contested matches in the previous rounds?
Since the start of the competition, we have approached every match as a final. The preparation remains intense, just like for all our games. We know very well how difficult the match against Senegal will be, They are a great team with great players, but we are ready.
Senegal are known for their physical strength and speed in transition. On which aspects will Egypt need to rely to impose their style?
Senegal are indeed a very strong team. We have faced them several times and they have many strengths, as well as players of the very highest level. But we also have our own qualities, players with ability and several ways to make the difference. We are capable of winning this match.
Can your experience in major matches play a decisive role for the group in a game of this importance?
We all work as one team, with a single objective: to win and qualify for the final. We have already reached the final twice without managing to lift the trophy, and we are doing everything to achieve that this time. We know the value of our opponents, but we believe in our group.
In a semi-final, it is often the small details that make the difference. What, in your opinion, will be the key factor in deciding this match?
Efficiency in front of goal, because chances are rare at this stage. But also, concentration from the first minute to the last. The experience of certain players in matches like this can also weigh heavily.
