Sudanese Football Club Holds African Giants to Dramatic Draw Despite Home Country Conflict
Pretoria, 23 January 2026
Al Hilal’s Abdel Raouf scored twice to secure a crucial 2-2 draw against South African powerhouse Mamelodi Sundowns in Pretoria, demonstrating remarkable resilience amid Sudan’s ongoing civil war. The result keeps both teams level on five points atop Group C in the CAF Champions League, with Sundowns maintaining their lead only on goal difference. This performance highlights how Sudanese sport continues to thrive despite the devastating conflict back home, providing hope for communities across the region while setting up a decisive fourth-round clash to determine the group winner.
Early Strike Sets the Tone
The match at Loftus Versfeld on Friday evening began with Al Hilal demonstrating precisely the kind of tactical discipline that has kept Sudanese football competitive despite extraordinary circumstances. Abdel Raouf struck first in the 15th minute, capitalising on a moment of defensive uncertainty to give the visitors an unexpected lead against the run of play [1]. The goal silenced the home crowd and immediately shifted the psychological momentum, proving that Al Hilal had arrived in Pretoria with clear intent rather than merely hoping to limit damage. Sundowns, who had entered the match as overwhelming favourites [1], found themselves trailing despite controlling possession and territory from the opening whistle.
Champions Respond with Clinical Precision
The hosts’ response demonstrated why they remain one of Africa’s premier football institutions. Arthur Sales equalised just seven minutes later in the 22nd minute, finishing expertly after a precise assist from Nuno Santos [1]. This rapid turnaround showcased Sundowns’ mental fortitude and attacking quality, restoring parity before Al Hilal could fully settle into their defensive shape. The Brazilian forward’s clinical finish highlighted the depth of talent that coach Miguel Cardoso had at his disposal, with the Portuguese tactician having expressed pre-match confidence in his team’s preparations whilst acknowledging Al Hilal’s strength [2]. The first half concluded with honours even, setting the stage for an enthralling second period.
Second Half Drama Unfolds
The second half began with Sundowns continuing their territorial dominance, creating several promising opportunities before finally breaking through. Teboho Mokoena fired the hosts into the lead in the 64th minute with a well-taken strike following an assist from Thapelo Matthews, sending the home supporters into celebration [1]. The goal appeared to put Sundowns on course for all three points, particularly given their sustained pressure and superior possession statistics. However, Al Hilal’s resilience—a quality that has become synonymous with Sudanese sport during these challenging times—would prove decisive once again.
Raouf’s Double Secures Historic Point
With just under 20 minutes remaining, Abdel Raouf completed his brace in the 71st minute, finishing off a move created by A. Coulibaly to silence the stadium and level the score at 2-2 [1]. The striker’s second goal demonstrated remarkable composure under pressure, converting from inside the penalty area with his right foot to secure what would prove to be a crucial away point [5]. Al Hilal were reduced to ten men when substitute Emmanuel Flomo was sent off in the 85th minute for striking Mudau [5], yet they managed to hold firm despite relentless late pressure from Sundowns. The result leaves both teams tied on five points atop Group C, with Sundowns maintaining their advantage only through superior goal difference [3][5]. This sets up a decisive fourth-round encounter that will determine the group winner, whilst demonstrating how Sudanese football continues to provide hope and pride for communities across the region despite the ongoing conflict affecting their homeland.