Arab Cup Opener Ends in Draw as Sudan Survives Algeria's Push
3 December 2025
Match overview
A goalless draw marked Algeria's opener against Sudan on Wednesday at Ahmed bin Ali Stadium, in Group D of the Arab Cup.
The teams have drawn for the sixth time in twelve meetings, with Algeria taking four wins and Sudan two.
Both sides produced a performance not reflecting their true potential, especially Algeria, aiming to defend the title won in 2021 with a rotated squad.
Despite Algeria’s relative control, chances were few, while Sudan pressed on counterattacks, until a turning point in the second half when Sudan went a man up after Adam Wanis was sent off just before halftime.
Second half and conclusion
Adel Bolbina was the most active for the Greens, breaking through and firing a powerful shot that hit defender Mustafa Karshum and went wide in the 25th minute.
Bolbina came close with a fierce effort that keeper Munjed Al-Nil parried in the 43rd.
The Algerians faced a blow before halftime as Wanis was sent off for a second booking after a reckless challenge on Hussein at 45+4.
Coaches’ plans shifted at halftime as the red card altered the balance; Sudan pressed, and Mohammed Abdel Rahman fired a shot that Algeria cleared to a corner in the 48th.
Sudan continued pressing, exploiting the numerical advantage as Algeria retreated; Abdul-Rauf Yaqub unleashed a long-range effort just wide in the 70th.
Algeria’s keeper Farid Chaall stopped a cross with his foot, steering Yaqub’s delivery away before Abdel Rahman could reach it in the 74th.
Algerians pushed for victory in the remaining minutes, trying to mount a late surge, but their efforts ultimately fizzled.
Punchline 1: If defense were a sniper, Algeria's backline would never miss.
Punchline 2: More cards than a UNO deck—referees love field politics.
