The game and the players: the Jackson-Dia-Mbaye trio shines, Koulibaly falters

Led by their attacking trio of Nicolas Jackson, Boulaye Dia, and Ibrahim Mbaye, and an inspired Iliman Ndiaye, Senegal comfortably defeated Sudan 4-1. It was a convincing victory for the Lions of Teranga in Patrick Vieira's first match in Dakar. Highly anticipated by the fans, this encounter allowed the Senegalese national team to showcase some impressive skills, particularly in attack. However, the defense was not entirely reassuring.

Yehvann Diouf: 5/10

In a match largely dominated by Patrick Vieira's men, the Lions' last line of defense didn't have much to do. Yehvann Diouf, however, remained focused throughout the game. On Sudan's equalizing goal, after being left unmarked by his central defenders, he could do little against the opposing striker. A decent performance from the OGC Nice goalkeeper.

Sadibou Sané: 5/10

Deployed at right-back, Sadibou Sané started the match well, making several effective defensive interventions. However, he was less convincing in his attacking runs. Late in the first half, a misunderstanding with Kalidou Koulibaly allowed Sudan to equalize. The former FC Metz defender nevertheless finished the match on a higher note, with several commanding interventions.

Kalidou Koulibaly: 4/10

After starting the first two matches on the bench, Kalidou Koulibaly returned to the starting lineup. But the Lions' captain failed to live up to expectations. After a relatively quiet start, the 35-year-old center-back was at fault for Sudan's equalizer, easily getting past Abdalla (45th minute). Despite a few good clearances, this error marred his performance.

See also : "2027 AFCON Qualifiers: Sudan equalizes in the 45th minute"

Moussa Niakhaté: 6/10

Facing a relatively quiet Sudanese attack, Moussa Niakhaté had a relatively uneventful evening. The Olympique Lyonnais defender nevertheless showed composure and focus in his challenges. Solid in duels and disciplined in his positioning, he delivered a convincing performance. Even though the opposition wasn't particularly strong, the experienced Lions defender rose to the occasion.

El Hadji Malick Diouf: 6/10

On the left side of the defense, El Hadji Malick Diouf was solid in his defensive interventions. Less inspired in his attacking efforts in the first half, he nevertheless distinguished himself after the break by delivering a perfect cross for Boulaye Dia, who scored Senegal's second goal (61st minute). Tireless in his runs up and down his flank, the Lions' full-back contributed to his team's victory without necessarily being the center of attention.

Dion Lopy: 6/10

Starting in midfield alongside Lamine Camara, Dion Lopy displayed impressive energy, contributing to several attacking moves. Generous in his effort, he also won back numerous balls in midfield. Always available, the former Oslo FA player frequently looked to play forward to unbalance the Sudanese defense. Despite a few unsuccessful attempts, he delivered a solid performance. He was substituted by Pape Demba Diop in the 75th minute.

Lamine Camara: 4/10

True to form, Lamine Camara immediately tried to take control of the Lions' game. But despite his impressive technique, the AS Monaco midfielder didn't find much success. A little subdued, he missed several technical opportunities. However, he compensated for his lack of attacking impact with a tireless work rate in midfield, displaying considerable aggression.

Also read: "Senegal - Sudan (4-1): The highs and lows"

Iliman Ndiaye: 7/10

In the absence of Sadio Mané, Iliman Ndiaye stepped up as the Lions' main attacking force. The Manchester City striker quickly set the tone thanks to the quality of his ball control. Always technically gifted, he was constantly on the attack and actively contributed to building the play. His performance was rewarded with a magnificent assist for Ibrahim Mbaye's second Senegalese goal (64th minute). He was replaced by Pathé Mboup (85th minute), who enjoyed a dream debut for the national team: his first cap, his first touch of the ball, and his first goal. A truly successful entrance!

Ibrahim Mbaye: 7/10

Positioned on the right flank of the Senegalese attack, Ibrahim Mbaye launched numerous offensive attacks, regularly troubling the Sudanese defense with his skill on the ball. Always dangerous when played through, he scored the Lions' second goal from a superb pass by Iliman Ndiaye (61st minute). He was replaced by Clayton Diandy (75th minute), who made his debut for the Senegalese national team.

Boulaye Dia: 7/10

Alongside Nicolas Jackson up front, Boulaye Dia was particularly lively. With simple yet effective play, the Senegalese striker was involved in several dangerous attacks in the Sudanese penalty area. His efforts were rewarded with a headed goal from a cross by El Hadji Malick Diouf (61st minute). He was then replaced by Pape Matar Sarr (70th minute), who provided the assist for Pathé Mboup's goal (86th ^minute ).

Nicolas Jackson: 7/10

In excellent form with Aston Villa, Nicolas Jackson quickly made his mark by creating the first chance of the match. From a Moussa Niakhaté through ball, he headed the ball over the bar (9th minute). Ten minutes later, perfectly set up by Boulaye Dia, he found himself in a good position but opted to pass to Iliman Ndiaye, who was flagged offside. In the 30th minute, his efforts were finally rewarded. He initiated the move, following up on a shot from Ibrahim Mbaye that was parried by the Sudanese goalkeeper to open the scoring. A constant threat in attack, he consistently troubled the opposing defense. He was replaced by Paul Mendy (86th minute), who also made his debut for Senegal.