Sudan, the 1970 champions, stunned the reigning African giants with a dream start when Aamir Abdalla unleashed a sensational strike just six minutes into the contest.
The early setback, however, did little to unsettle Senegal, who gradually grew into the game with their trademark composure and intensity.
Their pressure finally told in the 29th minute when captain Sadio Mané produced a moment of class, setting up Pape Guèye to restore parity.
Senegal maintained control thereafter, and Guèye struck again in the closing moments of the first half to complete the turnaround and hand the Teranga Lions a 2–1 lead at the break.
Sudan showed renewed belief after halftime and pushed for an equaliser, but their hopes of a dramatic comeback were dashed when substitute Ibrahim Mbaye made an instant impact, scoring just three minutes after coming on to extend Senegal’s advantage.
Mané, once again at the heart of everything, provided his third assist of the tournament with another intelligent contribution.
The defeat ends Sudan’s campaign and means they remain without a quarter-final appearance since 2012, while their dream of a second AFCON title, and first since 1970, must wait.
For Senegal, the victory extends their unbeaten run and marks an improvement on their last AFCON outing.
The 2021 champions now turn their attention to a quarter-final clash against either Mali or Tunisia as their quest for a second continental crown gathers momentum.
