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This Friday evening, football fans across Africa will turn their attention to Dakar’s Abdoulaye Wade Stadium, where Senegal hosts Sudan at 10:00 PM in the seventh round of the African qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. With both teams level on points and the stakes higher than ever, the encounter promises to be one of the most intense matches of the qualifiers so far.
The Group B Standings Before Kickoff
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Democratic Republic of Congo: 13 points (1st place)
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Senegal: 12 points (2nd place, better goal difference)
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Sudan: 12 points (3rd place)
This tight race means that a win could put either Senegal or Sudan in a strong position to challenge for direct qualification to the 2026 World Cup, set to be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Senegal – Home Advantage and Star Power
Senegal, the reigning African powerhouse, approach this clash with confidence. Playing at home in front of thousands of passionate supporters, the Lions of Teranga know that anything less than victory could damage their World Cup ambitions.
Key strengths:
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Star-studded squad with players active in Europe’s top leagues.
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Strong home record, rarely dropping points in Dakar.
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Experience under pressure, having featured in the last two World Cup tournaments.
Sudan – Chasing History
For Sudan, the mission is clear: qualify for the World Cup for the first time in history. The Falcons of Jediane have exceeded expectations in this campaign, matching Senegal point for point so far.
Key strengths:
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Defensive resilience, keeping games tight against bigger teams.
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Team unity and motivation, as they seek to make history.
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Nothing to lose mentality, making them dangerous opponents under pressure.
Key Players to Watch
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Senegal:
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Sadio Mané – The Bayern Munich forward remains Senegal’s talisman, always decisive in big games.
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Kalidou Koulibaly – A rock in defense, leading with authority.
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Ismaïla Sarr – Brings pace and creativity on the wings.
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Sudan:
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Mohamed Abdel Rahman – A striker capable of producing key goals.
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Athar El Tahir – Offers strength and leadership at the back.
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Salaheldin Nemer – A versatile midfielder who links defense and attack.
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Tactical Battle
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Senegal’s Game Plan: Expect dominance in possession, pressing high, and relying on their attacking stars to break Sudan’s defense.
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Sudan’s Game Plan: Compact defense, disciplined organization, and sharp counterattacks aimed at exploiting spaces behind Senegal’s backline.
This tactical contrast could make the match even more thrilling.
What’s at Stake
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For Senegal: A win would keep them within touching distance of group leaders DR Congo and confirm their status as favorites to qualify.
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For Sudan: Victory in Dakar would be historic, placing them ahead of Senegal and keeping their World Cup dream alive.
The Venue – Abdoulaye Wade Stadium
The Abdoulaye Wade Stadium in Dakar is set to provide an electrifying atmosphere. With tens of thousands of fans expected, the stadium will be a fortress for Senegal, but Sudan will be determined to block out the noise and focus on their mission.
✅ Conclusion
The Senegal vs. Sudan showdown is more than just another qualifier—it’s a clash of ambition, history, and pride. Senegal want to prove their dominance, while Sudan aim to shock Africa by keeping their World Cup dream alive.
With both teams tied on points, this Friday night’s battle in Dakar could shape the destiny of Group B and determine who edges closer to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
❓ FAQs
1. When is the Senegal vs. Sudan match?
Friday, September 5, 2025, at 10:00 PM.
2. Where will the match be played?
At the Abdoulaye Wade Stadium in Dakar, Senegal.
3. What is the importance of this match?
Both teams are level on points and competing for qualification, making it a decisive clash.
4. Who are Senegal’s star players?
Sadio Mané, Kalidou Koulibaly, and Ismaïla Sarr.
5. Why is this match historic for Sudan?
Because Sudan are chasing their first-ever qualification to a FIFA World Cup finals.