Sudan recorded their first Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) victory since 2012, taking a major step toward the knockout stage of the 2025 tournament with a hard-fought win over Equatorial Guinea in Casablanca. An own goal by Saul Coco proved decisive, condemning Equatorial Guinea to their second straight defeat in Group E.
The win is especially significant for Sudan, who have been forced to play their home matches outside the country because of the ongoing civil war, which began in April 2023. Despite these challenges, the team showed resilience and determination to secure a result that keeps their qualification hopes firmly alive.
A Tight Match Decided by One Moment
The match was evenly contested, with both teams struggling to make the most of their chances. The breakthrough came 16 minutes from time, when Saul Coco accidentally turned a cross past his own goalkeeper, Jesus Owono.
That moment ended Sudan’s eight-game winless run at Afcon, which included a defeat by Algeria just four days earlier. While the game lacked clinical finishing, Sudan remained disciplined and organised, defending well to protect their narrow lead.
Group E Becomes Wide Open
With this result, Sudan, Burkina Faso, and Algeria all sit on three points in Group E. Sudan will face Burkina Faso in their final group match in Casablanca on Wednesday at 16:00 GMT, while Algeria and Burkina Faso meet later on Sunday in Rabat.
Equatorial Guinea, meanwhile, face a must-win game against Algeria in Rabat on Wednesday. After losing their opening match to Burkina Faso in dramatic last-minute fashion, the National Thunder now need an upset to keep their hopes alive.
Even so, qualification is still possible. Afcon rules allow several third-placed teams to reach the last 16, meaning a single win in the final group match could be enough.
Sudan’s Achievement Against the Odds
Simply reaching the Afcon finals was already a major achievement for Sudan. The ongoing conflict at home has disrupted domestic football, training schedules, and logistics. Yet the team has remained competitive, showing unity and focus on the pitch.
Before this tournament, Sudan had managed just one point at the 2021 Afcon, their only appearance since 2012. This victory therefore represents a major milestone and a strong statement of progress.
Missed Chances for Equatorial Guinea
Equatorial Guinea will be frustrated by their failure to convert several good opportunities. They came close early in the match when Pedro Obiang fired a half-volley over the bar from close range after good work inside the penalty area.
The first half was stop-start, with 10 minutes of added time due to injuries and interruptions. Defender Josete Miranda was introduced after Marvin Anieboh was forced off injured, and Miranda later sent a free-kick well over the bar.
Sudan goalkeeper Monged Elneel also required attention after going down unchallenged, though he was able to continue.
Second-Half Pressure Without Reward
Equatorial Guinea pushed harder after the break. Substitute Jose Nabil Ondo, who turned 20 last month, nearly made an instant impact. He ran into the box and fired narrowly wide before setting up Loren Zuniga, whose shot hit the side netting.
Sudan nearly doubled their lead when Mohamed Eisa saw a shot blocked on the goal line. Equatorial Guinea continued to search for an equaliser, and late on, substitute Emilio Nsue—the top scorer at the previous Afcon with five goals—lifted a shot just wide of the target.
Qualification Still Possible
Despite losing their first two matches, Equatorial Guinea are not yet eliminated. History shows that three points can be enough to reach the knockout stage. At the 2023 Afcon, Mauritania lost their first two games but advanced after winning their final match. Even eventual champions Ivory Coast progressed with three points.
Similar scenarios occurred in earlier tournaments, including the 2019 edition, where several teams advanced despite limited points.
For Sudan, qualification remains achievable even if they fail to win their final match. However, another positive result would confirm a remarkable journey for a team competing under extraordinary circumstances.
As Group E heads into its decisive final round, both Sudan and Equatorial Guinea still have everything to play for, setting the stage for a tense and dramatic conclusion.