Pape Gueye struck twice as Senegal came from behind to defeat Sudan 3–1 at the Africa Cup of Nations in Tangier, bringing an emotional end to Sudan’s remarkable run amid the backdrop of the country’s ongoing civil conflict.
Sudan stunned the defending champions early when Aamir Abdallah cut inside from the right and curled a superb left-footed effort beyond Edouard Mendy in the sixth minute, briefly igniting hopes of a famous upset among the Sudanese supporters.
Mendy was soon called into action again, producing a sharp low save to deny Mohamed Eisa, before Senegal gradually asserted control, urged on by the relentless rhythm of their fans’ drums echoing around the vast stadium.
Nicolas Jackson was denied from close range by goalkeeper Monged Elneel, but the pressure finally told in the 29th minute when Gueye found space on the edge of the area and calmly swept home the equaliser. The Villarreal midfielder struck again in first-half stoppage time, guiding a precise finish high past Elneel to complete the turnaround.
Sudan showed admirable resolve after the break and Mendy was again required to thwart right-back Sheddy Barglan, but Senegal largely kept their opponents at arm’s length as the contest wore on. The outcome was sealed in the 77th minute when 17-year-old substitute Ibrahim Mbaye burst clear, shrugged off his marker and rifled into the net from a tight angle to cap an assured Senegalese display.
Mbaye later went close to adding another, while Senegal comfortably managed the closing stages to underline their depth and experience.
The Teranga Lions remain in Tangier for a quarter-final meeting with Mali, who advanced after edging Tunisia on penalties. For Sudan, whose journey included a historic group-stage escape, the dream ends here — but not without pride or inspiration.