Senegal 4-1 Sudan: Badara Sarr praises Jackson and Diouf but highlights defensive concerns

After a seven-year absence, Senegal returned to their much-loved Leopold Sedar Senghor Stadium with a convincing 4-1 victory over Sudan in the third round of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

Patrick Vieira’s side played in front of a sold-out crowd on Thursday, marking an emotional reunion with their supporters. However, coach Badara Sarr described the performance as having two distinct sides, praising Senegal’s attacking display while pointing to a defensive lapse that allowed Sudan back into the game.

Jackson and Diouf lead the best performers

With Sadio Mane unavailable on the left side of Senegal’s attack, El Hadji Malick Diouf took responsibility and caused Sudan problems with his runs and deliveries into the area. He also supplied the assist for Boulaye Dia’s goal.

Diouf received a rating of 8.5 out of 10, the same mark awarded to Nicolas Jackson, who opened the scoring for Senegal.

Ibrahim Mbaye was also among the standout performers after scoring in the 64th minute. He was rated 8.1, while Boulaye Dia received 7.9.

The assessment highlighted the contribution of Senegal’s attacking players in a match that ultimately ended in a comfortable victory, despite the setback before half-time.

Defensive mistake gives Sudan hope

Senegal were rarely troubled by Sudan, but a misunderstanding in defence led to the visitors’ goal and briefly threatened to change the course of the match.

Captain Kalidou Koulibaly and Sadibou Sane failed to deal with the situation, allowing Sudan to score and level the game at 1-1 by the end of the first half. Koulibaly was given a rating of 7.1 out of 10.

Sarr identified the incident as a warning for Senegal ahead of their next meeting with Sudan. The teams will face each other again in the fourth round of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.

For that match, the published odds list Senegal as favourites at 1.20 to win. A draw is priced at 5.70, while a Sudan victory is rated at 16.00.