AFCON 2025: Why Senegal Skipper Koulibaly Is Not Playing Against Sudan?

Senegal will be without their captain Kalidou Koulibaly for their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 Round of 16 clash against Sudan on Saturday, 3 January, after the defender was suspended following a red card in the group stage.

What Happened?

Koulibaly received a straight red card during Senegal’s 3-0 win over Benin on Tuesday, a result that secured top spot in Group D. Head coach Pape Thiaw confirmed that the suspension is for one match only, meaning Koulibaly will return if Senegal advance to the quarter-finals.

“Kalidou will miss the Sudan game, but he will be back for the next round if we qualify,” Thiaw told reporters.

🚨🚨 | Koulibaly gets a red card in the Senegal match.

He won't play officially in the round of 16. pic.twitter.com/LfCeCKBWyx
— Goals Side (@goalsside) December 30, 2025

Senegal vs Sudan – Key Match Details

Fixture: Senegal vs Sudan
Stage: AFCON 2025 Round of 16
Venue: Grande Stade de Tangier
Kick-off: 17h00 local time (16h00 GMT)

Impact of Koulibaly’s Absence

Koulibaly’s leadership and defensive strength have been vital for Senegal, who are unbeaten so far. His absence could see Abdou Diallo or Formose Mendy step into the backline. Despite this setback, Senegal remain favourites against Sudan, boasting a strong record against East African sides at AFCON: six matches, five wins, one draw, 15 goals scored, one conceded.

TotalEnergies CAF AFACON Morocco 2025 – Morocco – Zambia-Satde Moulay Abellah – Rabat – Morocco referee Samuel Uwikunda RWA shows a red card to SenegalÂ s Kalidou Koulibaly 3 during the Africa Cup of Nations CAN 2025 football match between Senegal and Benin at the Grand Satde of Tanger n Tanger on December 30, 2025. Copyright: xloulidiphotox

What’s Next for Senegal?

If Senegal defeat Sudan, Koulibaly will return for the quarter-finals, where tougher opposition awaits. The Teranga Lions are chasing their second AFCON title after lifting the trophy in 2021.