Senegal set to lose Ismaila Sarr for Sudan double-header

Senegal are expected to be without Ismaila Sarr for their Africa Cup of Nations 2027 qualifying double-header against Sudan on 12 and 16 November.

The Crystal Palace forward has suffered a recurrence of the groin injury that ruled him out of Senegal head coach Patrick Vieira’s first international gathering in charge of the Lions of Teranga.

Sarr, 28, has won 87 caps and scored 23 goals for Senegal. His latest setback was confirmed by his club coach, Pierre Sage, who said the attacker was currently unable to play.

“For the moment, he is not in a position to play,” Sage told a news conference.

The Frenchman expects Sarr to return “after the international break”, meaning the player is unlikely to be available for either of Senegal’s matches against Sudan.

Senegal are also likely to be without midfielder Bara Sapoko Ndiaye. The 18-year-old, who has made four international appearances, underwent surgery for appendicitis at Bayern Munich.

Ndiaye is not expected to be available for another two weeks and is therefore also set to miss the forthcoming international gathering.

Senegal’s qualification position

Senegal began their Africa Cup of Nations 2027 qualifying campaign with a 1-1 draw against Mozambique on 25 September before edging past Ethiopia 1-0 four days later.

The Lions are second in Group J, behind Mozambique on goal difference. Two victories against Sudan, known as the Crocodiles of the Nile, would put Senegal in a strong position to secure qualification.