AFCON 2025: Senegal vs Sudan – Team News, Lineups, Start Time

In the upcoming round of 16 match for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025, Senegal will face Sudan. This exciting clash will take place on January 3 at the Ibn Batouta Stadium in Tangier, starting at 5 PM local time (16:00 GMT).

Match Overview: Senegal vs Sudan

Senegal, the reigning champions and ranked 19th globally, enter this knockout stage with high expectations. They topped Group D, earning seven points from two wins and a draw. In contrast, Sudan has made a remarkable return to the AFCON knockout stages for the first time in 14 years, progressing as one of the best third-placed teams with a total of three points, secured through a late victory over Equatorial Guinea.

Team News

• Senegal: They will miss captain Kalidou Koulibaly due to suspension after receiving a red card in the final group match. Key players such as Sadio Mane and Nicolas Jackson remain vital to their ambitions.
• Sudan: Coach Kwesi Appiah will be without midfielders Salah Adil, Abo Eisa, and Abuaagla Abdalla due to injuries. Sheddy Barglan and Walieldin Khidir are expected to lead the team’s efforts.

Recent Form

• Senegal: The team is currently on a 14-match unbeaten streak in AFCON, with 9 wins and 5 draws, showcasing their strength and defensive prowess.
• Sudan: Sudan has won one of their last seven AFCON matches, indicating room for improvement as they look to challenge the top teams.

Key Players

• Senegal: Notable stars include Sadio Mane, who has been directly involved in 17 AFCON goals. Nicolas Jackson and Cherif Ndiaye also contribute significantly to the attack.
• Sudan: Key performers such as Walieldin Khidir and Ammar Taifour have the potential to impact the game’s outcome dramatically.

Historical Context

Historically, Senegal has dominated this matchup, maintaining an unbeaten record in their seven encounters, with four wins and three draws. This match marks their first meeting in AFCON history, despite several previous contests outside the tournament.

Upcoming Challenges

The winner of this fixture will remain in Tangier to face the victor of the Mali versus Tunisia match in the quarterfinals on January 9. Both teams carry the hopes of their nations into this significant contest, with Senegal aiming to defend their title and Sudan striving for further progression against adversity.