Tournament know-how and calm leadership once again proved decisive as Senegal recovered from an early setback to defeat Sudan 3-1 on Saturday evening in Tangier, securing a place in the quarter-finals of the TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Morocco 2025.
Sudan briefly threatened a major upset when Aamir Abdallah produced a moment of individual brilliance to open the scoring inside six minutes. But Senegal’s seasoned core responded with authority, led by a commanding performance from Pape Gueye, who struck twice to turn the tie around before substitute Ibrahima Mbaye put the result beyond doubt.
The defending champions absorbed the early shock with composure, gradually imposing their rhythm on the contest. Their response was rewarded in the 29th minute when Gueye levelled the score after Sadio Mané won possession in midfield and released his teammate, who finished clinically.
Also read: AFCON: Ten-man Mali show steel to knock out Tunisia on penalties
ng dominance was evident as they continued to probe Sudan’s defence. Nicolas Jackson went close on two occasions, while Gueye had earlier tested the goalkeeper from distance. The breakthrough arrived just before half-time when Jackson’s cut-back found Gueye, whose curling effort completed the comeback and handed Senegal a 2-1 lead at the interval.
Sudan showed renewed intent early in the second half and nearly drew level when Sheddy Barglan was denied by an outstanding reflex save from Edouard Mendy. That moment, however, marked the last serious challenge from the Falcons of Jediane.
With Senegal firmly in control, the contest was settled in the 77th minute. Mané, once again pulling the strings, provided his second assist of the night, setting up Mbaye to fire home from close range and seal victory.
Beyond the scoreline, the match also carried historical significance. Mané’s two assists took his tally at the Africa Cup of Nations to nine, lifting him clear as the tournament’s all-time leading assist provider, ahead of Côte d’Ivoire legend Yaya Touré.
Senegal now advance with confidence, reaffirming their status as one of the leading contenders for continental honours as the knockout stages intensify.