Africa Cup of Nations – Group Stage (Group E)
The Africa Cup of Nations 2025 begins a crucial chapter for both Algeria and Sudan as the two nations face off in their opening Group E fixture on December 24. While Algeria arrive as clear favorites with continental ambitions, Sudan enter the tournament as underdogs carrying the weight of national pride and resilience.
This match represents more than just three points. It is a test of expectations versus determination, experience versus survival instinct, and structure versus belief.
Group Context and Tournament Stakes
Group E is composed of Algeria, Sudan, Burkina Faso, and Equatorial Guinea, a group where margins are expected to be thin behind the clear favorite. For Algeria, the objective is straightforward: finish top of the group and build momentum for the knockout rounds. For Sudan, every match is a battle to remain competitive and keep qualification hopes alive.
Algeria’s recent history at AFCON has been frustrating. Despite winning the tournament in 2019, they were eliminated in the group stage in the two most recent editions. That disappointment has placed extra pressure on this generation to restore credibility on the continental stage.
Sudan, on the other hand, approach this tournament under vastly different circumstances. With domestic football heavily disrupted over recent years, simply qualifying for AFCON is an achievement. Every performance is an opportunity to represent resilience and unity rather than results alone.
Team Form and Momentum
Algeria: Redemption and Control
Algeria arrive in Morocco with renewed confidence. Their recent international performances have been solid, marked by defensive stability and improved attacking cohesion. The team appears more balanced, with a clear structure in midfield and multiple attacking outlets capable of making the difference.
While injuries have affected certain players in the build-up to the tournament, the core of the squad remains intact. Algeria’s strength lies not only in individual quality but also in tournament experience. Many players are accustomed to high-pressure environments, which could prove decisive in tight group matches.
This opening fixture is seen internally as a must-win. Algeria know that a strong start would relieve pressure and allow them to approach the remaining group matches with greater control.
Sudan: Discipline and Pride
Sudan enter AFCON with limited expectations externally, but strong internal motivation. Their recent results have been mixed, particularly against higher-ranked opponents, but the team has shown discipline and organization when set up defensively.
Scoring goals remains a challenge, and Sudan are aware that chances may be few against a dominant Algerian side. As a result, their approach is expected to prioritize compactness, structure, and patience.
For Sudan, this match is about staying competitive for as long as possible and capitalizing on any opportunity that presents itself — whether through counterattacks, set pieces, or individual moments.
Probable Lineups
Algeria (Likely 4-3-3)
Goalkeeper:
Luca Zidane
Defense:
Rayan Aït Nouri – Aïssa Mandi – Ramy Bensebaini – Rafik Belghali
Midfield:
Ismaël Bennacer – Ramiz Zerrouki – Anis Hadj Moussa
Attack:
Riyad Mahrez – Baghdad Bounedjah – Mohamed Amoura
Algeria’s lineup reflects balance and versatility. Bennacer is expected to dictate tempo, while Mahrez and Amoura provide creativity and penetration from wide areas. Bounedjah remains the reference point in the box.
Sudan (Likely 4-4-2 / 4-5-1)
Goalkeeper:
Mohamed Abooja
Defense:
Yousif Awad – Mustafa Karshom – Mohamed Ering – Ahmed Tabanja
Midfield:
Ammar Taifour – Yasir Mozamil – Walieldin Khidir – Abdel Razig Omer
Attack:
Abdel Raman – Robia
Sudan’s structure is designed to remain compact, with two tight lines of four and limited space between midfield and defense. Their forwards will be tasked with pressing selectively and exploiting any transition opportunities.
Tactical Breakdown
Algeria’s Approach
Algeria are expected to dominate possession from the opening whistle. Their plan will revolve around patient buildup, quick circulation of the ball, and frequent use of the wings. Mahrez’s ability to drift inside and create overloads will be central to breaking Sudan’s defensive block.
Algeria will also look to press aggressively after losing possession, aiming to pin Sudan deep in their own half. Set pieces could play a key role, particularly against a defense that may struggle to maintain concentration over long periods.
Sudan’s Strategy
Sudan are likely to defend deep, conceding possession and territory while focusing on shape and discipline. Their midfield will aim to close central spaces and force Algeria wide, where crosses can be defended more easily.
On the ball, Sudan will favor direct play. Long passes into the channels and quick counters will be their primary attacking weapons. Any opportunity to slow the tempo or disrupt Algeria’s rhythm will be welcomed.
Key Players to Watch
Algeria
Riyad Mahrez
Still the creative leader of the team, Mahrez’s decision-making and technical quality can unlock even the most organized defenses.
Ismaël Bennacer
The heartbeat of midfield, Bennacer’s role in ball recovery and progression will dictate Algeria’s control of the match.
Mohamed Amoura
His pace and off-the-ball movement offer Algeria a vertical threat that could stretch Sudan’s defensive line.
Sudan
Yasir Mozamil
A key defensive midfielder whose ability to win duels and protect the back line will be tested throughout the match.
Ammar Taifour
Sudan’s main outlet on the flank, responsible for transitions and delivering service into the box.
Mohamed Abooja
The goalkeeper is expected to face heavy pressure and will need a standout performance to keep Sudan in the game.
What’s at Stake
For Algeria
- A victory would ease pressure and set a positive tone for the rest of the group stage.
- Avoiding another slow AFCON start is critical after recent disappointments.
- Goal difference could be important later in the group.
For Sudan
- Remaining competitive against a tournament favorite would boost confidence.
- Any point gained would be a major achievement.
- A disciplined performance could keep qualification hopes alive.
Match Expectations
This is expected to be a one-sided match in terms of possession, but not necessarily in terms of effort or intensity. Algeria will control the game, while Sudan will aim to frustrate and resist.
The key question is not whether Algeria will create chances — but how quickly they can convert them. The longer Sudan hold out, the more belief they will gain.
Final Thoughts
Algeria vs Sudan represents the essence of AFCON football: contrast, emotion, and opportunity. Algeria enter with ambition and pressure, while Sudan arrive with pride and determination.
On paper, Algeria are superior in every department. On the pitch, however, AFCON has often proven that organization, belief, and discipline can challenge expectations.
For Algeria, this is about reclaiming authority.
For Sudan, it is about being heard on Africa’s biggest stage.
The journey begins here.