Sudan’s Falcons of Jediane were moments away from a perfect start to their CHAN 2024 journey before Congo Republic’s Red devils struck late to snatch a 1-1 draw in their Group D opener .

The Cecafa giants had taken a deserved lead midway through the first half through teenage striker Musa Ali Hussein. The Al-Merrikh forward showed composure beyond his years, finishing off a swift move with a precise right-footed shot from the left side of the box to hand Sudan a 1-0 advantage in the 31st minute.

The Falcons of Jediane looked well-drilled early on, keeping possession and pressing high up the pitch. Their intensity unsettled the Red Devils, who struggled to get out of their half. Ali Abdalla was key in midfield, dropping back to control the tempo and link the defense with the attack. A disallowed goal from Abdalla earlier had already signaled Sudan’s attacking intent before the breakthrough came.

However, Congo Republic slowly grew into the contest. Gosim Elenga and Elie Andzouono carried the attacking burden for the Red Devils, with Andzouono testing the Sudan goalkeeper from range several times. Still, the Sudanese defense, led by Altayeb Abaker and Walieldin Khidir, held strong to carry their lead into the break.

In the second half, Congo pushed harder, dominating possession and forcing the Falcons to sit deeper. Multiple corners and long-range efforts came their way, but the final pass or finish often let them down. Elenga remained the most threatening outlet, though the Sudanese backline kept him largely at bay.

The match became scrappy in midfield, with both sides struggling to create clear chances. Still, Sudan seemed in control and looked to be managing the game well as the clock ticked down. The Falcons slowed the pace, using Abdalla’s movement to ease pressure and maintain shape.

But with just six minutes remaining, the Red Devils found their breakthrough. Substitute Carly Ekongo unleashed a powerful right-footed shot from inside the box that flew past the goalkeeper, bringing the hosts level in the 85th minute. The equalizer came after sustained pressure, and it shifted the momentum dramatically in the dying moments.

It was a crushing blow for Sudan, who had defended their lead for 84 minutes and looked destined to take all three points. Instead, the late strike forced both teams to settle for one point apiece.Despite the frustration, Sudan’s Falcons of Jediane can take pride in the performance of their young stars, particularly the teenage forward who opened the scoring. Meanwhile, Congo Republic will feel encouraged by their fighting spirit and ability to salvage a result under pressure.

As Group D unfolds, Sudan will aim to build on the positives shown, while the Congo Red Devils will hope to start faster in their next outing. The draw leaves both sides with work to do, but their campaigns are still very much alive.