Senegal will kick off their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations knockout campaign when they face Sudan at the Grand Stade de Tangier on Saturday, in what promises to be a challenging test despite the apparent gulf in class.
Match Preview
The Teranga Lions topped Group D with seven points from three matches, edging past DR Congo on goal difference. Senegal’s group-stage campaign included commanding 3-0 victories over Botswana and Benin, alongside a goalless draw, giving them a total of seven goals scored and just one conceded. Their form heading into the knockout phase is impressive, boasting eight wins in their last 10 matches across all competitions.
Pape Thiaw’s side will be aiming to reach the quarter-finals for the fourth time in the last five Africa Cup of Nations tournaments. After exiting at the same stage in the previous edition at the hands of Ivory Coast, Senegal will be determined not to leave anything to chance.
Sudan’s progression to the round of 16 has been surprising, finishing third in Group E and advancing as one of the best third-placed teams. The Sudanese side secured a crucial 1-0 win over Equatorial Guinea but suffered defeats in their other two group games. Their recent form is less encouraging, with only one win in their last five matches and just two victories in 15 games across all competitions.
Historically, Sudan have struggled against Senegal, failing to secure a win in their last seven encounters, with four losses and three draws. Kwesi Appiah’s men will need a monumental effort to defy the odds in Tangier.
Team News and Key Absences
Senegal will be without captain Kalidou Koulibaly, suspended following a red card against Benin. Ilay Camara (muscle) and Assane Diao (thigh) also remain sidelined. Despite these absences, the Teranga Lions retain significant attacking firepower with Sadio Mane, Ismaila Sarr, and Iliman Ndiaye all available.
Sudan will be missing Abuaagla Mohamed, Abobaker Eisa, and Adil Salaheldin due to injuries, though most of their squad is fit and ready for the challenge.
Predicted Lineups
Senegal (probable): Mendy; Jakobs, Niakhate, Seck, Diatta; P. Gueye, I. Gueye; Ndiaye, Mane, Sarr; Jackson
Sudan (probable): Elneel; Awad, Saeed Ahmed, Karshom, Khamis; Taifour, Alhassan Omer; Nooh, Eisa, Abdelrahman
Prediction
On paper, Senegal are overwhelming favourites given their superior form, talent, and historical dominance over Sudan. Expect the Teranga Lions to progress comfortably into the quarter-finals.
Score Prediction: Senegal 2-0 Sudan
