World Cup 2026 qualifiers: Senegal defeat Sudan and close in on DR Congo | OneFootball

The Lions of Teranga move within a point of the group B leaders

World Cup 2026 qualifiers: Senegal defeat Sudan and close in on DR Congo

Senegal secured a convincing 2-0 victory over Sudan in Diamniadio on Friday, September 5, 2025, during the 7th round of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. Thanks to this win, the Lions of Teranga are now closing in on the Democratic Republic of Congo, who remain at the top of Group B.

This clash at the Abdoulaye Wade Stadium in Diamniadio featured the second and third-placed teams in Group B. It was a match filled with intensity and surprises, but the Lions of Teranga took control right from the opening minutes.

Captain Kalidou Koulibaly broke the deadlock with a powerful header from a pinpoint Krepin Diatta cross in the 14th minute, setting the tone for a dominant performance by Pape Thiaw's men.

Senegal didn't take long to double their lead. Just before the interval, Kalidou Koulibaly turned provider, delivering a perfect assist to Pape Matar Sarr. The Tottenham midfielder latched onto the pass and fired home a stunning finish in the 41st minute to make it 2-0.

The Sudanese tried in vain to pull one back. Sadio Mané and the Lions of Teranga saw out the match with a comfortable two-goal cushion. This victory puts Senegal level with Sudan on 15 points, just behind DR Congo, who hold onto the Group B lead with 16 points after their 4-0 win over South Sudan.