Sudan show their resolve

Doha: Undoubtedly, facing the title holders in a tournament opener is going to ramp up the pressure, and Algeria s pedigree in African and Arab footba...

Doha: Undoubtedly, facing the title-holders in a tournament opener is going to ramp up the pressure, and Algeria’s pedigree in African and Arab football, along with their impressive FIFA World Cup history, make them a complex challenge for any competitor. Nevertheless, it seems that Sudan were not cowed in the first round of the FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025.

James Kwesi Appiah’s men spared no effort in the first half, standing firm against the champions’ early surge and drive to dominate the proceedings, and refused to concede a goal. They gradually found their feet in the match, drawing energy from their magnificent fans who packed the stands at Ahmed bin Ali Stadium in Al Rayyan. Then came an Algerian dismissal, which paved the way for Sudan to take full control of the second half.

Sudan goalkeeper Mohamed Al Nour was one of the men who came to the rescue at touch moments in the first half. The 25-year-old’s brilliance earned him a well-deserved Player of the Match award, although he was quick to spread the credit around.

“Our ambition was to win. Every player put in a fantastic performance, and we hope to be victorious next time,” he told FIFA after the match.

“The coach gave us the right instructions in the second half to secure a victory, but we didn’t succeed. For now, we hope to qualify to play on.”