Salah’s tribute turns CHAN spotlight into message of hope for Sudan
When Salah Eldin Adel Ahmed El Hassan walked off the pitch in Zanzibar after Sudan’s goalless draw with Senegal, he was not only carrying the TotalEnergies Man of the Match award — he was carrying the weight of a nation.
His performance was more than a midfield masterclass; it was a gesture of pride for a country striving for joy during turbulent times.
“This qualification is for them; we want to make our people happy,” Salah declared, dedicating his award to his family and the Sudanese people.
Leading the Falcons with grit and precision
Against defending champions Senegal, Salah anchored the midfield with remarkable precision, completing 90% of his passes and winning five tackles. His composure helped Sudan secure the point that guaranteed their progression to the quarter-finals.
“We entered the match with a plan. Senegal is a great team and the defending champions of the previous edition. We had to defend a lot, and that worked for us,” he explained.
Sudan’s disciplined approach in this fixture contrasted sharply with their earlier games. After a shaky opening draw and a 4-0 triumph over Nigeria, coach Kwesi Appiah’s youthful side adapted their strategy — and Salah’s leadership proved decisive.
A journey of dedication
At 30, Salah is no stranger to the CHAN stage. Featuring in his second edition, the Al-Hilal midfielder has already logged 259 minutes in the group stage. His relentless drive underscores the Falcons of Jediane’s ambitions.
He reflected on the effort of his teammates: “This qualification is for all the Sudanese people; we want to make our people happy.”
Respect for the tournament’s growth
Salah’s perspective also reached beyond the match. He praised the evolution of the tournament itself, highlighting the improvements in organisation and atmosphere.
“The CHAN tournament has a good feeling; all the officials are working to develop the competition, which is great,” he noted.
Eyes on Algeria, step by step
With the group phase behind them, Sudan now turn to their quarter-final clash against Algeria, coached by Madjid Bougherra, on Saturday the 23rd at Aman Stadium in Zanzibar.
Asked about the challenge ahead, Salah remained grounded: “We are taking the competition step by step.”
As the knockout rounds beckon, one truth endures: in moments of pressure, big players step forward. And for Sudan, Salah Eldin Adel Ahmed El Hassan is proving to be more than a midfielder — he is a symbol of belief, carrying the hopes of a nation.
