Algeria vs Sudan Match Recap - Dec 24, 2025

Algeria Dominates Sudan 3-0 in Africa Cup of Nations Opener

Riyad Mahrez's brace propelled Algeria to a commanding 3-0 victory over Sudan, showcasing their offensive prowess and tactical superiority. This match marked a stark contrast to their previous encounter, which ended in a goalless draw just weeks prior. The Algerians, buoyed by recent form, seized the opportunity to assert their dominance early in the tournament.

Mahrez's performance was a continuation of his recent scoring form, having netted crucial goals in the Arab Cup leading up to this match. His ability to find the back of the net consistently has been a game-changer for Algeria, and today he proved once again why he is considered one of the continent's elite players. With two goals today, Mahrez not only set the tone for the match but also reinforced his status as a key figure in Algeria's attacking lineup.

Algeria entered this fixture with a solid record, having won three of their last four matches. Their recent performances have been characterized by an impressive offensive output, averaging over two goals per game. The team's attacking depth was on full display, with contributions from players like Adil Boulbina, who has been instrumental in their scoring efforts. This victory further cements Algeria's position as a formidable contender in the tournament.

Sudan, on the other hand, has struggled significantly in recent outings, losing three of their last five matches. Their inability to maintain possession and create scoring opportunities has left them vulnerable against stronger opponents. The red card issued to Alhassan in the first half compounded their difficulties, forcing them to play with ten men and further limiting their chances of mounting a comeback.

The tactical setup of both teams played a crucial role in the outcome. Algeria's 4-2-3-1 formation allowed them to control the midfield and transition effectively from defense to attack. The combination of Ismaël Bennacer and Hicham Boudaoui provided stability while facilitating quick ball movement, enabling Algeria to exploit gaps in Sudan's defense. In contrast, Sudan's 4-3-3 formation struggled to adapt under pressure, leading to disjointed play and missed opportunities.

Statistical analysis reveals that Algeria dominated possession and shots on goal throughout the match. With over 20 attempts compared to Sudan's limited output, it was evident that Algeria was in control. Their expected goals (xG) figures have consistently outperformed Sudan's, highlighting the disparity in attacking efficiency. This match only reinforced those trends, as Algeria capitalized on their chances while Sudan faltered.

The impact of this result on both teams' standings cannot be understated. For Algeria, this victory sets a positive tone for their campaign in the Africa Cup of Nations, positioning them favorably as they look ahead to their next match against Burkina Faso. Meanwhile, Sudan faces an uphill battle as they prepare for their upcoming fixture against Equatorial Guinea, needing to regroup quickly if they hope to salvage their tournament hopes.

Reflecting on my pre-match predictions, I anticipated a strong showing from Algeria, but the extent of their dominance exceeded expectations. The tactical execution and individual brilliance displayed today suggest that they are not just contenders but serious threats in this tournament. Conversely, Sudan must address their tactical shortcomings and find ways to support their forwards if they wish to avoid further disappointment.

In summary, this match served as a clear indicator of the current trajectories of both teams. Algeria's blend of experience and youthful exuberance positions them well for future success, while Sudan must confront their challenges head-on if they are to remain competitive in this prestigious tournament. The narrative continues as both teams prepare for their next challenges, with Algeria riding high on confidence and Sudan searching for answers.