Defending champions Senegal became the first team to secure a spot in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) quarter-finals today, Saturday, January 3, 2026. The Teranga Lions overcame an early scare to defeat a resilient Sudan 3–1 at the Ibn Batouta Stadium.
Despite being heavy favourites, Senegal found themselves trailing just six minutes into the match, but their tactical depth and clinical finishing ultimately overwhelmed the “Falcons of Jediane.“
The Round of 16 clash started with a shock that silenced the Senegalese supporters, but the favourites quickly regained their composure.
Sudan’s Aamir Abdallah, who plays in Australia’s state leagues, stunned the much-vaunted Senegal defence by cutting inside and curling a superb left-footed effort past Edouard Mendy.
However, in an exciting 29′, 45+3′ show, midfielder Pape Gueye led Senegal’s recovery, scoring twice before the interval. His first was a tidy finish after Sadio Mané intercepted a loose pass; the second was a precise side-foot from the edge of the area following a layoff by Nicolas Jackson.
Record-breaking substitute brahima Mbaye sealed the victory late in the second half. At just 17 years old, Mbaye became the second-youngest scorer in AFCON history, firing a powerful strike into the top-right corner.
As the first team through to the “Last Eight,” Senegal now enjoys a brief period of rest before their next high-stakes encounter.
Senegal will face the winner of the Tunisia vs. Mali clash (which kicked off later on Saturday evening), as the quarter-final remains scheduled for Friday, 09 January 2026, in Tangier.
Of note, the team will hope for a smooth transition back for captain Kalidou Koulibaly, who missed today’s match due to a suspension from the group stages.
“We knew Sudan would be tough; they have the heart of a lion because of what’s happening in their country. But we showed our character today. This is the knockout stage, there are no small teams.” – Sadio Mané, post-match.
