Sudan Hold Senegal To Goalless Draw To Remain Top Of World Cup Qualifying Group.
Sudan’s impressive run in the 2026 FIFA World Cup African qualifiers continued with a determined 0-0 draw against tournament favourites Senegal on Saturday evening in Benghazi, Libya.
The result sees Sudan maintain their unbeaten record and remain top of Group B with 11 points from five matches, two points ahead of Senegal and one clear of DR Congo. For Senegal, the draw increases the pressure ahead of their upcoming clash with Togo on Tuesday.
Despite their superior experience and attacking quality, the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations champions struggled to break down a resilient Sudanese side that has emerged as the surprise package of the group.
Senegal nearly capitalised on an early mistake from Sudan goalkeeper Mohamed Mustafa in the opening minute, but the shot-stopper recovered just in time. While the Lions of Teranga dominated possession, it was Sudan who looked more threatening on the counter-attack.
The best opportunity of the first half fell to Sudan in the 20th minute when a forward dribbled past Edouard Mendy but failed to convert into an open net. At the other end, Senegal squandered a one-on-one chance and missed another close-range effort just before the break.
Sudan started the second half brightly, forcing Mendy into action three minutes after the restart with a long-range strike that he parried before smothering the rebound under pressure. The North Africans had penalty appeals waved away following a challenge inside the box.
Senegal’s best chance came in the 54th minute when Sadio Mané attempted an overhead kick, but his effort sailed over the bar with Mustafa beaten. Sudan could have snatched all three points in the 76th minute, but Walieldin Khidir missed a clear chance inside the area. Mané nearly made Sudan pay four minutes later, only for his goal-bound shot to be cleared off the line.
Despite late pressure from both sides, the match ended in a stalemate, showcasing Sudan’s tactical discipline and Senegal’s growing frustration.
With this result, Sudan continue to dream of their first-ever World Cup appearance, while Senegal now face a crucial test in their bid to reclaim top spot in Group B. The next round of fixtures on Tuesday could be decisive in shaping the group’s outcome.
