Sudan’s dramatic CHAN 2024 quarter-final win over Algeria was more than just a football triumph, as it was a rare moment of joy for a nation enduring the weight of war.

Sudan stormed into the semi-finals of the African Nations Championship (CHAN 2024) by defeating Algeria in the quarter-finals.

The match ended in a 1-1 draw after extra time, and Sudan won the penalty shootout 4-2. Throughout their campaign, one name was on everyone’s lips: Abdelrazig Taha Yagoub Omer, affectionately known as Abdel Raouf.

The midfield maestro has been the heartbeat of the Falcons of Jediane’s historic campaign, putting in dominant displays and scooping two Man of the Match awards.

At 32, Raouf is enjoying some of the finest football of his career while carrying the hopes of a nation enduring tough times back home.

“We’ve performed exceptionally well in the first phase of the tournament, showing consistency and high levels of performance. It’s all thanks to the work we’ve put in as a united group,” he revealed in an interview with CAF Online.

“Our focus now is to keep building on this momentum in the next stage to raise the name of Sudan even higher at this major continental event.”

Raouf advised players to take CHAN seriously, describing it as a golden opportunity for those in local leagues, especially at clubs that do not regularly compete in CAF interclub competitions.

He urged them to work hard, stay disciplined, and use the stage to build their professional careers.

“Personally, my goal is to give my best in every match until the final. As a team, our ambition is clear: we want to win the CHAN title. Nothing less,” he added.

“The situation back home has made us even more determined. Our people are going through a lot, and football has become one of the few sources of joy. Every victory brings smiles to Sudanese faces, and that alone pushes us to give everything on the pitch.”

He admitted that it was an incredible achievement, noting that they had faced some of the strongest teams in African football with rich traditions.

He explained that the technical staff had created brilliant plans, which the players executed with precision, and added that he felt proud to be part of a group that had made history by topping such a difficult group.

The group included Nigeria, Senegal, and Congo, and they remained unbeaten in the group, securing a spot in the knockout stage.

“The secret is simple, teamwork. If I shine, it’s because of the support of my teammates and the guidance of the technical staff. Everyone in this squad is working towards one goal: to lift Sudan high on the African stage,” he added.

He added that winning the Man of the Match award twice means a lot to him; however, he sees them as efforts of the group.

Beginning his football journey in Port Sudan, his hometown, Raouf explained that he was fortunate to train under good coaches who encouraged him.

He credited Coach Kwesi Appiah and Florent Ibenge at Al-Hilal for playing huge roles in shaping his career. He added that after God, he owed them for guiding him to that level.

“Coach Appiah is more than a coach, he’s like a godfather to us. He always stands by us, motivates us, and genuinely cares for the players,” he added.

“He has brought respect, belief, and unity to this team. Personally, I’m very thankful to him for all he has given me and the group.”

Raouf added that their match against Nigeria was historic, noting that the Super Eagles were a great team with a strong reputation. He admitted that beating them 4-0 was a big statement for his side.

“Scoring twice in such a game made me very proud, but more important than my goals was the team performance,” he disclosed.

Raouf added that it was a huge responsibility and a great honour to represent South Sudan at this moment. He added that it is more than just football.

He also mentioned that hearing their national anthem at major tournaments made them determined to keep raising their flag on the continental stage.

Sudan face Madagascar on Tuesday, August 26, in their semifinal match of CHAN 2024, looking to continue their winning streak and make it to the final.