Senegal beat Sudan to qualify for Quarterfinals
Senegal defeated Sudan 3–1 in the 2025 AFCON Round of 16, advancing to the quarterfinals thanks to Pape Gueye’s brace and Ibrahim Mbaye’s late strike, after Sudan had taken an early lead.
The Round of 16 clash at the Grand Stade de Tanger began with a shock as Sudan struck first. Aamir Abdallah Yunis silenced the Senegalese crowd in the 6th minute with a composed finish, giving Sudan a 1–0 advantage. The early goal forced Senegal to regroup quickly, and their response came through midfield dominance and relentless pressing. By the 29th minute, Pape Gueye equalized with a well-placed shot, restoring balance to the contest.
Senegal gradually imposed themselves on the game, dominating possession with 67.5% compared to Sudan’s 32.5%. Their midfield trio of Idrissa Gueye, Pape Gueye, and Habib Diarra dictated the tempo, while Sadio Mané and Ismaïla Sarr stretched Sudan’s defense. Just before halftime, Pape Gueye struck again in stoppage time (45+3’), giving Senegal a 2–1 lead and shifting momentum firmly in their favor.
Sudan attempted to rally after the break, but their limited possession and reliance on counterattacks left them vulnerable. Senegal’s defense, marshaled by Moussa Niakhaté and Abdoulaye Seck, absorbed Sudan’s sporadic attacks. Ibrahim Mbaye sealed the victory in the 77th minute with a decisive finish, ensuring Senegal’s progression. Sudan’s late efforts, including long-range attempts from Ammar Taifour, were either blocked or off target.
The numbers highlighted Senegal’s superiority: 14 total shots to Sudan’s 9, 9 shots on target to Sudan’s 3, and 7 corners to Sudan’s 4. Édouard Mendy was rarely troubled, making just two saves, while Sudan’s goalkeeper was far busier with six stops. Both sides collected two yellow cards, reflecting the physical nature of the contest.
Senegal coach Pape Thiaw praised his team’s resilience after conceding early: “We showed character. Sudan surprised us, but we remained calm and trusted our game plan. Pape Gueye was exceptional, and the team’s collective effort carried us through.” Sudan’s coach, Kwesi Appiah, acknowledged his side’s limitations: “We started well and believed we could cause an upset, but Senegal’s quality and depth made the difference. I’m proud of my players’ fight, but we lacked composure in key moments.”.
With this 3–1 victory, Senegal booked their place in the quarterfinals, reaffirming their status as one of the tournament favorites. Their blend of experience, star power, and tactical discipline proved decisive against Sudan. For Sudan, the exit marked the end of a spirited campaign, highlighted by their ability to challenge stronger teams but ultimately undone by lapses in concentration. Senegal now turns its focus to the next round, where tougher challenges await as they chase AFCON glory.
