Tuesday, January 31, 2012

Africa Cup of Nations wrap: Sudan progress as Angola fade



Sudan registered a spot in the knockout stages of the Africa Cup of Nations for the first time in 42 years after a 2-1 win over Burkina Faso.

The victory saw Mohamed Abdalla's side progress from Group B at the expense of Angola, who were beaten 2-0 by Ivory Coast.

Entering the match three points in arrears of Angola and needing a goal difference swing of three, Sudan scored twice through Eltaib Mudather in either half to complete a remarkable turnaround.

The east Africans still managed a quarter-final berth despite a late strike from Issiaka Ouedraogo.

Their qualification was secured after group winners Ivory Coast eased past Angola, who only needed a draw to secure a passage into the next round.

With the likes of Didier Drogba, Yaya Toure and Gervinho watching on from the bench, the second-string Ivory Coast outfit took the lead in the 33th minute through Emmanuel Eboue.

Wilfried Bony tapped in a second 19 minutes after the interval to maintain his side's perfect record in the tournament and send Lito Vidigal's side crashing out.

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