Senegal captain Kalidou Koulibaly has played down the significance of the opponent ahead of his side’s Africa Cup of Nations semi-final against Egypt, insisting the Teranga Lions will stick to their identity rather than be distracted by reputations.

Speaking as Senegal fine-tune preparations for the last-four clash, Koulibaly said his approach as captain will not change simply because Egypt stand in their way.

“It’s not because we’re facing Egypt that I’m going to change the way I give instructions,” he said. “It’s always tricky to reveal all the details.”

The experienced centre-back acknowledged the mutual familiarity between the two sides, who have crossed paths repeatedly in high-stakes matches in recent years.

“We know their strengths, and they know ours,” Koulibaly added.

For the former Napoli defender, the key lies in discipline and belief, qualities he says Senegal must maintain throughout the contest.

“It’s up to us to stay focused for as long as possible, stick to our game plan, play our game, and seize every opportunity to punish them,” he said.

The semi-final brings together two of Africa’s most accomplished teams, renewing a rivalry shaped by the 2022 AFCON final and subsequent World Cup qualifying battles.

As captain, Koulibaly is expected to play a pivotal role, not just at the heart of defence but also in guiding a squad aiming to take another step towards continental glory.

Senegal face Egypt with a place in the AFCON final at stake, in what promises to be another tense and finely balanced chapter in their modern rivalry.