AFCON 2025: Gueye double powers Senegal into last eight

A Pape Gueye brace powered Senegal to a 3-1 comeback victory over Sudan in Tangier on Saturday, securing a quarter-final place at the 2025 AFCON in Morocco.

Gueye struck twice in the first half as the former champions overturned an early setback, before substitute Ibrahima Mbaye sealed the win with a late goal.

Sudan stunned Senegal in the sixth minute when Aamir Abdallah finished a swift counter-attack with a superb curling effort to give the underdogs an early lead.

The Lions of Teranga responded with composure and drew level in the 29th minute, Gueye finishing calmly after Mané dispossessed an opponent and played him through.

Senegal completed the turnaround deep into first-half stoppage time as Gueye curled home his second, converting a well-timed cut-back from Nicolas Jackson.

Sudan threatened briefly after the restart, but goalkeeper Edouard Mendy produced a sharp reflex save to deny Sheddy Barglan from close range.

Sadio Mané further enhanced his AFCON legacy by providing two assists, moving clear as the tournament’s all-time leading assist provider with nine.

Senegal remained in control and wrapped up the contest in the 77th minute, Mbaye firing decisively into the net following another incisive Mané assist.

The convincing victory underlined Senegal’s growing authority at the tournament as they marched confidently into the quarter-finals.