LIVE: Senegal vs Sudan | AFCON 2027 Qualifiers
Senegal and Sudan face off in a match that could reshape the Group J standings on the road to AFCON 2027. The Lions of Teranga hold a slight advantage, but Sudan have plenty of motivation to pull off a surprise in Dakar.
Senegal will host Sudan this Thursday in Matchday 3 of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations Qualifiers. The Stade Léopold Sédar Senghor in Dakar will be the setting for a matchup that could have major implications for Group J.
With qualification still wide open, both teams know this game could prove decisive for their ambitions. Kickoff is scheduled for 1:50 PM ET / 10:50 AM PT on beIN SPORTS.
Senegal holds the advantage, but Sudan looks to bounce back
Senegal, led by Patrick Vieira, began its qualifying campaign with a 1-1 draw against Mozambique before securing a 1-0 victory over Ethiopia, thanks to a goal from Ibrahim Mbaye. Senegal will have key players available, including Kalidou Koulibaly, Lamine Camara, Pape Matar Sarr, Iliman Ndiaye, and Nicolas Jackson, but will be without Sadio Mané, Idrissa Gana Gueye, Ismaïla Sarr, Assane Diao, and Abdallah Sima.
Meanwhile, Sudan, coached by James Kwesi Appiah, opened its campaign with a 1-0 win over Ethiopia, courtesy of a goal from Mohamed Eisa, but subsequently suffered a 4-1 defeat against Mozambique. The Falcons of Jediane will need to improve defensively and find answers against one of the group's leading contenders.
What's at stake for Senegal and Sudan in Group J?
Senegal and Mozambique are tied at the top of the group with four points each, while Sudan sits in third place with three. Ethiopia has yet to earn a point. The standings leave little room for mistakes, especially with only the top two teams qualifying for AFCON 2027, which will be hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.
A Senegal victory would strengthen its position near the top and extend its lead over Sudan. However, an away win would dramatically change the race and move the Falcons of Jediane closer to the qualification spots.
Senegal vs. Sudan: A recent meeting adds extra tension
These two nations have a recent encounter that remains fresh in their history. On January 3, 2026, Senegal defeated Sudan 3-1 in the knockout stage of AFCON 2025, with Pape Gueye scoring twice and Ibrahim Mbaye adding another goal.
Sudan will now have an opportunity to seek revenge in Dakar, while Senegal will look to repeat that result. The two teams will meet again on Monday, November 16, this time with Sudan playing at home.
