In a crucial Group E fixture on Sunday, December 28, 2025, Sudan — coached by former Ghana Black Stars boss James Kwesi Appiah — clinched a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Equatorial Guinea at the Stade Mohammed V in Casablanca, Morocco.
Decisive Moment
The match’s only goal came in the 74th minute when Equatorial Guinea defender Saúl Coco inadvertently turned the ball into his own net under pressure from a Sudan set-piece delivery.
Despite Equatorial Guinea pushing forward with urgency in the final stages, Sudan’s defence held firm to secure all three points — a rare AFCON victory for the Falcons of Jediane.
Group E Implications
The result keeps Sudan’s hopes of advancing to the knockout rounds alive.
After two games, Sudan sit on three points, climbing in the Group E standings, while Equatorial Guinea remain bottom with zero points, having now lost both of their opening matches.
Sudan will next face Burkina Faso in their final group game, with qualification still within reach.
Meanwhile, Equatorial Guinea will need a strong outcome against group leaders Algeria to keep faint hopes alive.
Historic Context
Sudan’s win is particularly noteworthy given the team’s long struggles at AFCON.
Prior to this victory, they had only one other tournament win in 17 matches stretching back decades.
Under Appiah’s leadership, Sudan are trying to rewrite that narrative despite a challenging start — including a heavy 3–0 defeat to Algeria in their opener.
Team Performances
Sudan: Showed grit and organisation, particularly in defence, responding to earlier setbacks with discipline and clinical focus in key moments.
Equatorial Guinea: Displayed attacking intent but were ultimately undone by a mistake at the back.
They created chances but lacked the finishing touch.
Appiah’s Impact
James Kwesi Appiah has emphasised resilience and tactical discipline since taking over the Sudan job.
The victory over Equatorial Guinea is a testament to that mentality — a crucial rebound after the team’s opening day loss and a positive sign for their campaign momentum.
Broader AFCON Picture
The Africa Cup of Nations 2025 is taking place across Morocco from 21 December 2025 to 18 January 2026, featuring 24 teams competing for continental glory.
Group stages run until 31 December, before advancing to knockout rounds in early January.
