Arab Cup 2025: Algeria stumble at the start against Sudan

Arab Cup: Algeria held back at the outset by Sudan

Arab Cup 2025: Algeria stumble at the start against Sudan

Algeria, the defending champions, failed to make a successful start in the 2025 Arab Cup. Despite their favorite status and the presence of key players like Adam Ounas, Youcef Atal, Yassine Benzia, and Islam Slimani, Madjid Bougherra's men were held to a draw by a gritty Sudanese side (0-0). The Fennecs dominated the match overall but lacked a clinical edge, squandering several clear chances, notably through Boulbina and Berkane.

The turning point came just before halftime. Adam Ounas, already booked, picked up a second yellow card in under ten minutes, leaving his teammates down to ten men. The sending-off broke Algeria's rhythm, forcing the team to reorganize and drop deeper against a Sudanese side that pressed aggressively and took every opportunity.

In the second half, the Greens mainly sought to preserve the scoreline while trying to strike on the break. Bougherra brought on Slimani and pushed Atal higher up to spark the counterattacks, but without success. They'll have to raise their game against Iraq and Bahrain if they hope to qualify.