Sudan Edge Equatorial Guinea to Claim Rare Nations Cup Victory

Sudan kept their Africa Cup of Nations knockout-stage hopes alive on Sunday after securing a narrow 1–0 victory over Equatorial Guinea in a Group E clash played in Casablanca.

The decisive moment came in the 74th minute when Equatorial Guinea defender Saul Coco inadvertently turned the ball into his own net while attempting to clear a dangerous Sudan free kick, handing the Falcons of Jediane a crucial breakthrough.

Despite enjoying limited possession for long stretches, Sudan remained disciplined and patient, capitalizing on one of their few clear opportunities in a tightly contested encounter.

The result marked a significant milestone for Sudan, who have struggled for consistency at the continental level in recent decades. Their last notable success at the tournament dates back to 1970, when they lifted the AFCON trophy on home soil.

A rare win for Sudan amid long-standing struggles

Sunday’s victory was only Sudan’s second win in 18 Africa Cup of Nations matches across six tournament appearances since that historic triumph more than five decades ago.

Ranked 117th in the world, Sudan entered the contest as underdogs against an Equatorial Guinea side placed 97th in the FIFA rankings, but showed defensive resilience to protect their slender advantage until the final whistle.

The win lifts Sudan to three points from two matches in Group E, significantly improving their chances of advancing, while Equatorial Guinea remain without a point after back-to-back defeats.

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Sudan’s participation at AFCON 2025 comes against the backdrop of ongoing conflict at home, where fighting between the national army and the Rapid Support Forces has continued since April 2023, disrupting domestic football activities.

The Falcons will face Burkina Faso in their final group game on Wednesday, knowing that another positive result could secure a rare place in the knockout stages, an achievement they have only managed once since 1970, reaching the quarter-finals in 2012.