Sudan and Burkina Faso meet on New Year’s Eve at the Mohammed V Stadium in Casablanca in a decisive Group E encounter at the TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Morocco 2025, with second place in the group firmly on the line.
Although both sides have already secured qualification to the Round of 16, the fixture carries major significance. With Algeria guaranteed top spot, the battle between the Falcons of Jediane and Les Stallions will determine who finishes second and who settles for third, a detail that could shape the route in the knockout stages.
Sudan, guided by head coach Kwesi Appiah, have impressed with their organisation and composure. Defensive discipline and quick transitions have defined their campaign, and Appiah believes his side is ready for another demanding test.
“Burkina Faso are a very strong team with many players based in Europe,” Appiah said. “But we have prepared well and we believe in our quality. This match is important for us and for the Sudanese people. Despite everything our country is going through, the players have shown great character, and we want to make our people proud.”
Midfielder Mohamed Issa highlighted the positive mood in the Sudan camp following qualification. “The atmosphere is excellent,” he said. “We achieved our first objective, but now we want more. The celebrations meant a lot to our families and supporters, and that motivates us to keep pushing.”
Burkina Faso arrive eager to respond after their defeat to Algeria and to finish the group on a high. Head coach Brama Traoré has stressed respect for Sudan while outlining his team’s ambition.
“Sudan are not an easy opponent,” Traoré noted. “They have a very experienced coach and a well-organised team. We will use all our resources and play intelligently to get the victory.”
For midfielder Ibrahim Kaboré, the focus is firmly on collective effort. “Every player must be ready,” he said. “Whether you start or come from the bench, what matters is giving everything for the team.”
The match also carries historical significance. This will be the second official AFCON meeting between the two nations, their last encounter coming in 2012 when Sudan claimed a 2–1 victory.
With pride, positioning, and momentum all at stake, the Casablanca clash promises to be a fiercely contested finale to Group E.
