FIFA Arab Cup: Ounas sent off as Algeria share points with Sudan

Reigning FIFA Arab Cup champions Algeria and Sudan shared the spoils in as both teams kicked off their Group D fixtures on Wednesday. Algeria were forced to play with ten men after Adam Ounas received two yellow cards in the first half, as both teams settled for a barren draw.

Algeria were tipped to take maximum points during their title-defense campaign, but the Falcons of Jediane put up a fierce fight at Ahmad bin Ali Stadium in Al Rayyan. Algeria’s attack was led by Qatar-based Adil Boulbina, but a good defensive display from the East Africans kept them at bay for much of the first interval.

Ounas was shown his second yellow after a blatant foul, with the North Africans were reduced to ten men at the stroke of halftime.

Sudan were the better side in the second half with their numerical advantage but created few chances. Algeria opted to defend and hit back through fast breaks. Abdelrazig Omer unleashed a shot from inside the box as Sudan came close to taking the lead. Algeria coach Majid Bougherra was forced to make some tactical adjustments for the remainder of the second half and earned a point.

Both Algeria and Sudan earned a point in their opening group match. Sudan coach James Kwesi Appiah selected the senior Sudan side even though the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco is fast approaching. It is believed that Appiah is using the Arab Cup to prepare for the 2025 AFCON.

Next up in Group D, Algeria faces Bahrain on Saturday while Sudan will clash against Iraq.