At a Glance
- Sudan qualifies for knockout stage after 2-0 loss to Burkina Faso
- Algeria tops Group D with 3-1 win over Equatorial Guinea
- Burkina Faso secures second place in Group E
- Why it matters: Sudan’s progression offers hope amid war, while Algeria and other teams shape the next round of the Africa Cup of Nations
Sudan’s football squad has secured a spot in the knockout phase of the Africa Cup of Nations after a 2-0 defeat to Burkina Faso, marking a significant achievement amid the country’s ongoing conflict. The Stallions’ advancement comes as one of the best third-place finishers, setting up a last-16 clash with Senegal in Tangier.
Sudan’s Group E Exit
Sudan’s loss to Burkina Faso ended Group E play, but the team’s overall performance earned them a place in the next round. The Stallions opened the game with a goal from Lassina Traoré in the 16th minute, but a missed penalty by Al Gozoli Nooh and a late strike by Arsène Kouassi sealed the result.
James Appiah said:
> “This is good for all Sudanese.”
Sudan’s fans, in the majority at Stade Mohammed V, rallied behind the team despite the challenges of playing all qualifiers away from home.
Algeria’s Dominant Group D Finish
Algeria confirmed first place in Group D with a 3-1 victory over Equatorial Guinea. Goals in the first half came from:
- Zineddine Belaid
- Fares Chaibi
- Ibrahim Maza
In the second half, veteran Emilio Nsue scored a consolation goal, after being cleared to play in the tournament this year.
Group F Outlook
Five-time champion Cameroon and defending champion Ivory Coast are vying for the top spot in Group F. Cameroon will face Mozambique, while Ivory Coast meets Gabon. Mozambique still has a chance to top the group, whereas Gabon is already eliminated.
Key Takeaways
- Sudan’s qualification offers a morale boost amid the country’s crisis.
- Algeria’s 3-1 win secures top spot and a favorable knockout draw.
- Cameroon and Ivory Coast’s upcoming matches will determine the Group F leader.
Sudan’s journey to the last-16, Algeria’s strong finish, and the looming Group F showdown set the stage for an exciting next chapter of the Africa Cup of Nations.
