Sudan and Nigeria clash at Zanzibar City's Amaan Stadium today in a crucial Group D fixture of the 2024 African Nations Championship as both teams aim for their first victory of the tournament.
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| Sudan Vs Nigeria |
Sudan, ranked 110th globally, opened their campaign with a 1-1 draw against Congo. Musa Hussien gave Sudan an early lead in the 29th minute, only for Congo's Carly Ekongo to equalize late in the game. Holding one point, Sudan currently sits third in the group but requires a win to strengthen their chances of progressing.
Nigeria enters this match just behind Sudan in fourth place after a narrow 1-0 defeat to Senegal in their group opener. The Super Eagles held strong defensive discipline for much of that game until Christian Gomis scored the decisive goal in the 76th minute. Returning to this tournament for the first time since 2018, Nigeria has a history of success, having advanced from the group stage twice in three previous appearances. However, they were eliminated early in 2016 after only one win from their group matches.
Historically, these two teams have met 15 times, with Nigeria winning nine and Sudan winning twice. Sudan’s rare victories include their first-ever meeting in 1963 and a notable win in 2014 after a long drought. Nigeria currently holds the upper hand, winning the last three encounters, the most recent being in January 2022. The FIFA World Rankings reflect this dominance, with Nigeria placed 44th and Sudan at 110th.
Given Nigeria's stronger international record and experience, they are the favorites to secure a win today despite their initial loss in this championship. Sudan is expected to put up a strong fight on home soil but may ultimately fall short.
This match promises a tactical battle as both sides seek their first points, with Nigeria looking to bounce back and Sudan aiming to capitalize on home advantage. Football fans can expect a tightly contested encounter.
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