By Joshua Kosimbom
Journalist kick442.com – Cameroon
Senegal sent a powerful message to the rest of the tournament as they booked their place in the quarter-finals with a commanding 3–1 comeback victory over a stubborn Sudan side. What began as a moment of shock quickly transformed into a statement of authority, resilience, and champion mentality from the Teranga Lions, who once again proved why they remain one of Africa’s most complete teams.
The early narrative threatened to tilt against the West Africans when Sudan stunned the stadium inside six minutes. Aamir Abdallah unleashed a thunderous strike from outside the box that flew into the top corner, silencing Senegalese fans and igniting belief on the Sudanese bench. For a brief spell, Senegal looked rattled, while Sudan grew in confidence, pressing bravely and refusing to retreat into a low block.
Yet champions respond, and Senegal did just that led by an imperious Pape Gueye, later deservedly named Man of the Match. Gradually asserting control through patient build-up and relentless circulation, Senegal began to squeeze Sudan deeper and deeper. The equaliser arrived in the 29th minute, fittingly through Gueye himself, who calmly swept home after a clever exchange involving Sadio Mané. The goal lifted the pressure instantly and restored Senegal’s rhythm.
Just before the interval, Senegal completed the turnaround in emphatic fashion. Nicolas Jackson’s intelligent lay-off once again found Pape Gueye on the edge of the area, and the midfielder responded with a moment of real class, curling a sublime effort into the top corner to make it 2–1. His brace was a reflection of his all-action display dictating tempo, winning duels, and driving Senegal forward at every opportunity.
The second half became a showcase of Senegal’s maturity and tactical control. With Pape Gueye anchoring midfield alongside crisp ball circulation, the Teranga Lions slowed the game, monopolised possession, and denied Sudan any sustained momentum. Edouard Mendy’s calm presence at the back further reinforced Senegal’s dominance as the North Africans searched in vain for a way back.
The contest was finally put beyond doubt in the 77th minute when substitute Ibrahim Mbaye added the third. After a sharp interchange inside the box, Mbaye created space and rifled a superb finish into the top corner, underlining Senegal’s depth and attacking quality.
In the end, the 3–1 victory did more than secure qualification, it confirmed Senegal’s readiness for the knockout rounds. Inspired by Man of the Match Pape Gueye, the Teranga Lions turned early adversity into a commanding triumph, rolling out the red carpet to the quarter-finals with confidence, authority, and unmistakable title intent.
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