Nigeria, Jan. 4 -- Senegal became the first team to reach the quarter-finals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations on Saturday after fighting back from an early setback to defeat Sudan 3-1 in Tangier, Morocco.

The Teranga Lions were stunned just six minutes into the contest when Aamir Abdallah gave Sudan a shock lead, curling a fine effort into the far corner after creating space away from Ismail Jakobs.

It was a rare moment of vulnerability for Senegal, who arrived at the knockout stage unbeaten and as one of the tournament favourites.

The defending champions responded with urgency and control. Ismaila Sarr tested Sudan goalkeeper Monged Elneel early, while Sadio Mane fired over as Senegal pushed for an equaliser. Sudan, however, remained...