Senegal vs Sudan: prediction & betting odds 5 September 2025

Both are on 12 points, yet they trail DR Congo by one point. This head-to-head has direct implications for the standings and could be pivotal in the race for the automatic qualification spot.

Senegal started strongly but did not show consistency. After six matches they have three wins and three draws, with only eight goals scored. The disappointment at Africa Cup of Nations 2024 and a flat level of play cost Aliou Cissé his job, and he was replaced by Pape Thiaw. Under Pape Thiaw, the team remains unconvincing: a goalless draw with Sudan and a 2:0 win over Togo. The main strength is the defence: just one goal conceded in qualifying. At home, Senegal are close to unbeatable, with seven wins, two draws and only one defeat across the last 10 matches.

Sudan have surprised observers: in six matches they are unbeaten, with three wins and three draws. They have scored eight and conceded only two, which is one of the stingiest defences in qualifying. Under James Kwesi Appiah the squad has found discipline and stability. Sudan are on an unbeaten run that has lasted almost a year. However, the record against Senegal is grim: they have never won in six meetings and have scored only once. The run-in is also challenging, with three away fixtures to come, including a decisive meeting with DR Congo.

Both squads are strong at the back, and the stakes are too high to take risks. Senegal should collect three points at home, but Sudan tend to dig in and are unlikely to allow the hosts to cut loose in attack. A cagey affair is likely, decided by one or two goals.