Teenager Ibrahim Mbaye scored four minutes after coming off the bench to seal Senegal’s 3–1 victory over Sudan in the opening Round of 16 match at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Tangiers on Saturday. The 17-year-old Paris Saint-Germain forward, who previously represented France at youth level before switching allegiance to Senegal, struck in the 77th minute to put the contest beyond Sudan’s reach. Former champions Senegal will now face either Mali or Tunisia in the quarter-finals, following their clash later on Saturday in Casablanca. READ ALSO: Ten-Man Mali Edge Tunisia on Penalties to Reach AFCON Quarter-Finals Sudan stunned the West Africans early, taking the lead in the sixth minute through Aamir Abdallah, who curled a superb shot over goalkeeper Edouard Mendy after collecting the ball just inside the area. Senegal responded strongly and drew level on 33 minutes when former African Player of the Year Sadio Mané set up Pape Gueye, who fired low into the corner. Gueye completed his brace deep into first-half stoppage time, side-footing home a cross to give Senegal a 2–1 lead at the break. Despite Sudan’s spirited display, Senegal dominated possession and chances in the second half. Goalkeeper Monged Abuzaid produced several fine saves, while VAR overturned a penalty award and ruled out an Ismaila Sarr goal for offside. Mbaye eventually provided the decisive moment, racing onto a long pass and beating Abuzaid at his near post shortly after being introduced. Senegal made six changes from their final group match, with suspended captain Kalidou Koulibaly among the absentees, while Sudan coach Kwesi Appiah retained only one starter from their previous defeat to Burkina Faso. The result was Senegal’s first AFCON meeting with Sudan and reflected the gulf in rankings between the two sides, with Senegal advancing confidently into the last eight.
Senegal defeats Sudan 3–1 , qualifies for AFCON quarter final
