World Cup Qualifying: Senegal dominate Sudan to keep Group B tight

Senegal remain within reach of the top of Group B in 2026 World Cup qualifying from the African region following Friday’s 2-0 home victory over Sudan.

Captain Kalidou Koulibaly headed the Lions of Teranga into the lead in the 14th minute as the hosts remained well in control throughout the match. Koulibaly’s long ball set up Pape Matar Sarr’s smooth finish close to halftime to deliver a knockout blow to the Sudanese selection.

Sudan, featuring several members of the fourth place finishing team at the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), were overwhelmed throughout the match by a star-studded Senegal side. Pinned in their own half for most of the match, Sudan failed to put a shot on target as their World Cup qualification hopes evaporated further after failing to claim a victory at their adopted home in Libya against both Senegal and South Sudan back in March.

Senegal remain one point back of Group B leaders DR Congo, who thrashed South Sudan earlier on Friday. In the other late Group B match played simulataneously, Mauritania climbed out of bottom spot with a 2-0 victory over Togo to move past Friday’s opponents as well as South Sudan.

Group B Table (7 matches played)

1. DR Congo- 16 points
2. Senegal- 15 points
3. Sudan- 12 points
4. Mauritania- 5 points
5. Togo- 4 points
6. South Sudan- 3 points

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