In a thrilling round of 16 clash at the Ibn Batouta Stadium, Senegal recorded an impressive comeback to defeat Sudan 3-1 on January 3, 2026, and book an African Cup of Nations (AFCON) quarterfinal spot.
The Lions of Teranga fell behind early but demonstrated their championship pedigree to advance in the Africa Cup of Nations 2025.
Sudan stunned the favorites in the sixth minute when Aamir Abdallah unleashed a brilliant chipped effort over goalkeeper Edouard Mendy, giving the Falcons of Jediane a dream start in their first AFCON knockout match since 2012.
It was a historic moment for Sudan, marking their first knockout goal in decades and momentarily threatening an upset of massive proportions.
However, the deficit only served to awaken the sleeping giants. Led by the tireless Sadio Mané, Senegal gradually took control of the midfield and began a relentless assault on the Sudanese goal.
The comeback was spearheaded by Villarreal midfielder Pape Gueye, who delivered a masterclass in clinical finishing. In the 29th minute, Gueye unleashed a thunderous long-range strike that beat goalkeeper Monged El Neel to level the scores.
As halftime approached, the pressure became unbearable for the Sudanese defense. In stoppage time of the first half, Gueye struck again, finishing a neat sequence involving Nicolas Jackson to ensure that Senegal came from behind against Sudan to book an AFCON quarterfinal spot before the teams even headed to the locker rooms.
The second half saw Senegal maintain their dominance, stifling any Sudanese hopes of a comeback. The victory was finally sealed in the 77th minute when 17-year-old PSG sensation Ibrahim Mbaye came off the bench to score a definitive third goal. Mbaye’s clinical finish into the top corner highlighted the incredible depth of Pape Thiaw’s squad.
With the final whistle, the celebration began as Senegal came from behind against Sudan to book an AFCON quarterfinal spot, officially becoming the first team to advance to the final eight of the 2025-26 tournament.
