Sudan have revived their hopes of qualifying for the next round of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), securing a crucial 1-0 victory over Equatorial Guinea in their second group game at Casablanca on Sunday, Bold Sports reports.
Having both lost their opening fixtures, the encounter was crucial for the two sides. Sudan came into the match on the back of a heavy 3–0 defeat to Algeria, while Equatorial Guinea were also looking to bounce back from a narrow 2–1 loss to Burkina Faso.
In the end, it was Sudan who emerged with renewed belief as they moved firmly back into contention for a place in the knockout stages.
Equatorial Guinea enjoyed the better of the first half, controlling possession and creating the bigger opportunities. However, their dominance failed to translate into goals, with poor finishing and resolute defending from Sudan keeping the score level at the break. Sudan, for their part, offered little in attack but remained organised and disciplined, determined not to fall behind.
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The pattern of the game continued in the second half, with Equatorial Guinea pressing forward and Sudan sitting deep. The breakthrough finally came in the 74th minute, albeit in unfortunate circumstances for Equatorial Guinea, as defender Saúl Coco diverted the ball into his own net under pressure, handing Sudan a priceless lead.
Stung by the setback, Equatorial Guinea threw men forward in search of an equaliser in the closing stages. Despite sustained pressure, they were unable to break through a Sudanese defence that stood firm until the final whistle.
The victory lifts Sudan to third place in Group E on three points, giving them a genuine chance of progressing to the round of 16. Equatorial Guinea, meanwhile, remain rooted to the bottom of the group without a point.
Sudan will face Burkina Faso in their final group match on Wednesday, while Equatorial Guinea take on group favourites Algeria as they look to salvage pride from their campaign.
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