Clash of Titans: Match Details

Everything is on the line as these two teams prepare for their first-ever meeting in an Africa Cup of Nations tournament. Here is what you need to know:

• Competition: TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 (Round of 16)
• Fixture: Senegal vs Sudan
• Date: Saturday, January 3, 2026
• Kick-off: 4:00 PM GMT
• Venue: Grand Stade de Tangier (Ibn Batouta Stadium), Tangier, Morocco

Paths to the Knockout Stage

The journey to the Round of 16 has been quite different for these two teams. Consequently, their form and momentum coming into this match vary significantly.

Senegal’s Dominant Group Stage

Senegal, the reigning champions, navigated their group with impressive confidence. They topped Group D with an unbeaten record of two wins and one draw. The Lions of Teranga showcased their strength by scoring seven goals while only conceding one, sending a clear message to their rivals. With a star-studded squad featuring players like Sadio Mané and Edouard Mendy, they are rightly considered one of the tournament favourites.

Sudan’s Resilient Qualification

Sudan’s path, however, was far more dramatic. The Falcons of Jediane secured their place in the knockout phase as one of the best third-placed teams. Finishing third in Group E with one win and two defeats, their qualification is a testament to their fighting spirit. Although they enter this match as underdogs, their historic 1970 AFCON title serves as a reminder of their potential.

A One-Sided Rivalry? Historical Context

History heavily favours Senegal in this matchup. In fact, the two nations have met seven times before, and Sudan has never managed to secure a victory.

• Senegal Wins: 5
• Draws: 2
• Sudan Wins: 0

Across these encounters, Senegal has outscored Sudan 8-1. Interestingly, the teams have played frequently in the past year, meeting four times in 2025 for World Cup qualifiers and the African Nations Championship (CHAN). Their most recent clash, a World Cup qualifier on September 5, 2025, ended in a 2-0 victory for Senegal.

What to Expect in Tangier

While history and form point towards a Senegalese victory, knockout football is famously unpredictable. Both teams have key factors that could decide the outcome of the match.

Senegal’s Strength and a Key Absence

Senegal’s attack, led by the dynamic Sadio Mané, is a threat to any defence. The team’s blend of experienced veterans and exciting young talent makes them formidable. However, they will face a significant challenge in defence. Captain Kalidou Koulibaly is suspended for this crucial match after being sent off in their final group game. His absence at the back could create an opportunity for Sudan to exploit.

Sudan’s Underdog Spirit

For Sudan, this match is a chance to make history. Led by striker Mohamed Abdel Rahman ‘Al-Ghorbal’, the Falcons of Jediane will rely on their defensive organisation and disciplined approach. They must be clinical with any chances they create against a powerful opponent. Ultimately, their success will depend on their ability to frustrate Senegal’s attack and capitalize on Koulibaly’s absence.

Conclusion

On paper, Senegal should comfortably advance to the quarter-finals. Their superior squad and dominant history against Sudan make them the clear favourites. However, the pressure of being defending champions, combined with a key defensive suspension, could level the playing field. Sudan has nothing to lose and everything to gain, and in a one-off knockout match, spirit and determination can often triumph over talent. The stage is set for a captivating David vs. Goliath story in Tangier.