Senegal Overcome Early Scare to Secure First AFCON Quarter-Final Ticket

The Teranga Lions of Senegal have officially become the first side to punch their ticket to the quarter-finals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, following a commanding 3-1 comeback victory over a resilient Sudan side. In a Saturday evening clash that flirted with disaster for the defending champions, the West African giants showcased their mental fortitude to overturn an early deficit and silence the underdogs under the floodlights of Morocco’s grand continental stage.

The drama began as early as the sixth minute when Sudan, playing with a fearless “nothing to lose” intensity, stunned the tournament favorites. Aamir Abdallah Yunis capitalized on a momentary lapse in the Senegalese backline, curling a magnificent effort into the far corner that left the goalkeeper stranded. For a brief period, an atmosphere of an impending historic upset loomed over the stadium, as the Falcons of Jediane retreated into a disciplined defensive shell to protect their precious lead.

However, the quality of Aliou Cissé’s men eventually rose to the surface, spearheaded by a masterclass performance from Papa Gueye. The midfielder took control of the narrative in the 29th minute, finding space in a crowded box to fire home the equalizer and settle Senegalese nerves. Gueye was far from finished, and on the stroke of halftime, he doubled his tally with a clinical finish that ensured the Teranga Lions retreated to the dressing room with the momentum firmly in their grasp.

The second half saw Senegal tighten their grip on the encounter, dominating possession and suffocating Sudan’s attempts at a counter-attack. The insurance goal arrived via Ibrahim Mbaye, who clinical touch in the final third effectively ended Sudan’s dream run. The goal acted as the final blow for the North Africans, who had fought valiantly but ultimately lacked the depth to match the relentless physical and tactical pressure applied by the top-seeded side.

This victory ensures that Senegal remains the team to beat as the tournament enters its business end. By navigating this potential banana skin, they have sent a clear message to their rivals that they are capable of absorbing pressure and responding with clinical efficiency. The Teranga Lions will now turn their attention to the winner of the high-stakes clash between Tunisia and Mali, as they move one step closer to defending their crown in the semi-finals.