Sudan stunned Equatorial Guinea to win their first match at AFCON 2025 as they revived their hopes of making the last 16 for the first time since 1970.
Sudan secured a stunning 1-0 victory over Equatorial Guinea, boosting their chances of reaching the Africa Cup of Nations knockout stages for only the second time since 1970.
Both teams entered the match needing a result after losing their opening group fixtures. Equatorial Guinea started stronger, creating two significant opportunities in the first 25 minutes. Former West Ham United player Pedro Obiang came closest, sending a rebound just over the crossbar after a defensive mix-up.
A long delay in the first half led to a significant amount of stoppage time, but neither side could find a breakthrough. The National Thunder failed to capitalise on their early dominance, and growing frustration was evident as three yellow cards were shown before the interval, though the half ended without any real moments of quality.
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The second half began with renewed intensity. Equatorial Guinea launched a swift counter-attack shortly after the restart, with substitute José Nabil cutting inside and firing a shot narrowly wide of the far post.
How Did Sudan Win It?
Sudan finally sparked to life around the hour mark when Mohamed Eisa's goal-bound effort was brilliantly cleared off the line by Esteban Orozco.
Despite being under pressure for much of the game, Sudan found an unexpected breakthrough in the 74th minute. A dangerous free-kick took a decisive deflection off the unfortunate Saúl Coco, leaving the defender to watch in despair as the ball found the back of his own net.
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Sudan nearly doubled their lead moments later when a cross from Yasir Mozamil almost found a teammate at the back post. However, they successfully held on to their narrow lead, securing a vital win that revives their qualification hopes after an opening loss to Algeria.
The result leaves Equatorial Guinea in a difficult position, as they must now seek an improbable victory against group favorites Algeria to keep their chances of advancing alive.