Sudan head coach James Kaesi Appiah says he has been left disappointed but also proud man after his team’s 3-1 defeat to Senegal in the AFCON 2025 last-16, a result that ended their spirited campaign in Morocco.
Sudan stunned the holders inside the opening minutes when Aamir Abdallah produced a moment of brilliance in the sixth minute, curling a superb effort beyond Edouard Mendy to hand the Falcons a shock early lead.
The goal briefly unsettled Senegal and raised hopes of another upset, as Sudan sought to build on their impressive showing in the competition.
Senegal responded with composure and authority, gradually asserting control in midfield. Pape Alassane Gueye drew the champions level in the 29th minute with a calm finish from the edge of the area before completing the turnaround deep into first-half stoppage time, side-footing home his second to give Senegal a 2-1 advantage at the break.
Gueye’s dominant display set the tone for the remainder of the contest, as Senegal dictated the tempo and pinned Sudan back for long spells.
Despite a spirited defensive effort from Sudan in the second half, the pressure eventually told. The contest was put beyond doubt in the 77th minute when 17-year-old Ibrahima Mbaye burst through the Sudanese defence and rifled a stunning finish into the top corner to seal the victory.
Pape Gueye was deservedly named Player of the Match after a commanding midfield performance that combined goals, control and leadership at a crucial stage of the tournament.
Senegal will now face the winner of Tunisia vs Mali in the quarterfinals on January 9, as their title defence continues to gather momentum. Sudan, meanwhile, exit the competition with pride after a spirited campaign that earned admiration across the continent.
“Of course I am disappointed with the result of the game but proud of the effort of my players throughout this competition,” Appiah said, reflecting the mixed emotions of a night where Sudan showed both quality and vulnerability.
“We played against a very experienced Senegal team but we showed our quality,” the Ghanaian tactician added.
“Despite the result tonight I am sure the Sudanese people know that we came to this competition and proudly represented them.” Appiah concluded.
