AFCON 2025: Sudan FA president holds dinner with players ahead of crucial Equatorial Guinea showdown

Sudanese Football Association president Mutasim Jaafar Sir Al-Khatim has hosted a team dinner for the Falcons of Jediane ahead of their decisive 2025 Africa Cup of Nations Group E encounter against Equatorial Guinea.

Sudan face Equatorial Guinea on Sunday at the Stade Mohammed Vin Casablanca, as they look to revive their campaign following a difficult start to the tournament.

The gesture by the federation president comes as head coach Kwasi Appiah and his squad intensify preparations in search of a much-needed first victory.

The Falcons of Jediane opened their AFCON campaign with a 3-0 defeat to Algeria, leaving little margin for error in the remaining group matches. The morale-boosting dinner was aimed at uniting the squad and restoring confidence ahead of a fixture that could define Sudan’s chances of progression.

Sudan’s build-up to the tournament had been overshadowed by unrest within the camp, with players previously threatening to boycott matches over unpaid bonuses.

Mutasim Jaafar has since moved to calm tensions, pledging to clear all outstanding payments owed to the squad. The commitment marks a significant step after months of frustration linked to delayed bonuses from both the Arab Cup and AFCON.

With Burkina Faso awaiting in their final group game on December 31, Sudan know that a positive result against Equatorial Guinea is vital to keep their knockout hopes alive.