Pape Gueye struck twice as former champions Senegal came from behind to defeat Sudan 3–1 in Tangier on Saturday night, sealing their place in the quarter-finals of the TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025.

Sudan stunned the holders with a dream start when Aamir Abdallah curled home a superb counter-attacking finish in the sixth minute. But Senegal responded with the composure and authority expected of champions.

Gueye drew the Lions of Teranga level in the 29th minute after Sadio Mané won possession in midfield and released the midfielder, who drove a low shot past the goalkeeper. Senegal’s pressure intensified, with Nicolas Jackson and Gueye both going close before the break.

The turnaround was completed in first-half stoppage time. Jackson again turned provider, cutting the ball back for Gueye, who produced a delightful curling finish from inside the box to make it 2–1.

Sudan threatened briefly after the restart, but Edouard Mendy produced a fine reflex save to deny Sheddy Barglan from close range. That proved to be their last real chance.

Senegal took full control thereafter and sealed the win 13 minutes from time. Substitute Ibrahima Mbaye powered home from close range following yet another incisive assist from Mané.

While Gueye claimed the headlines with his brace, Mané also etched his name into AFCON history. The Senegal captain’s two assists took him to nine for the tournament overall, moving him clear as the competition’s all-time leading assist provider.

Senegal saw out the closing stages with ease, underlining their status as strong contenders as the tournament heads into the quarter-final stage.