The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers commenced with Sudan securing a crucial 1-0 victory over Niger, a result achieved under exceptionally challenging circumstances. Due to an ongoing civil war that has ravaged the country since April 2023, Sudan’s national football team has been forced to conduct their training sessions and home matches abroad, adding a layer of adversity to their qualification campaign.
This match was no exception, as Sudan hosted Niger in Juba, the capital of neighboring South Sudan, far from their home grounds. Despite the disruptions caused by the civil conflict, Sudan displayed remarkable resilience and determination, overcoming the odds to start their Group F campaign with a win.
The game was tightly contested, with both teams struggling to find the back of the net in the first half. However, Sudan’s persistence paid off in the 51st minute when Abo Eisa, a forward currently playing in Thailand, broke the deadlock. His well-taken goal proved to be the difference between the two sides, as Sudan held on to secure all three points.
Eisa’s performance was particularly impressive given the circumstances surrounding the team. The ongoing conflict has not only displaced millions of people but has also made it difficult for the national team to maintain a regular training schedule. Despite these challenges, Sudan’s victory against Niger serves as a testament to their grit and determination to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations.
In other qualifiers, Comoros faced a similar challenge as they, too, could not play on home soil due to the lack of an international-standard stadium. The Comoros national team hosted Gambia in El Jadida, Morocco, and despite the venue change, they put up a commendable fight. Youssouf M’Changama gave Comoros the lead in the 37th minute, capitalizing on a defensive lapse by Gambia. However, their lead was short-lived as Gambia’s Musa Barrow, who currently plays in the Saudi Pro League, equalized during first-half stoppage time. The match ultimately ended in a 1-1 draw, with both teams settling for a point in their Group A opener.
Meanwhile, in Group D, Libya and Rwanda squared off in Tripoli, where the match also ended in a 1-1 draw. Libya took the lead early in the 17th minute through a goal by Subhi al Dhawi, who capitalized on a defensive mix-up by Rwanda. However, Rwanda fought back in the second half, with Innocent Nshuli scoring the equalizer just two minutes after the restart. Both teams had chances to win the game, but neither could convert, leaving them with a point each from their opening fixture.
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Another match that ended without a winner was the Group H clash between Tanzania and Ethiopia in Dar es Salaam. The game ended in a goalless draw, with Ethiopia failing to register a single shot on target. Despite having the home advantage, Tanzania couldn’t break down Ethiopia’s defense, leading to a frustrating evening for the home side. Both teams had their moments but lacked the cutting edge required to secure a win, resulting in a stalemate that leaves both sides with much to improve on in their next matches.
As the qualifiers continue, the action is set to intensify with seven more games scheduled for Thursday. Among the teams set to take the field are four former African champions – Algeria, Congo Brazzaville, Ghana, and Tunisia. These nations will be keen to start their campaigns on a positive note, looking to assert their dominance early on in the qualifiers.
Sudan’s victory, despite the immense challenges they face, is a reminder of the unpredictable nature of football and the resilience of teams in the face of adversity. As the road to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations continues, all eyes will be on these teams to see who will emerge victorious in the upcoming matches and secure their spots in the prestigious tournament.
