Hilal Crowned Dual Champions After Thrashing Al Merrikh in War-Torn Sudan

Al Hilal made history by becoming dual champions after securing a commanding 4-0 victory over their fiercest rivals Al Merrikh on Tuesday, clinching the Elite League title in Sudan. This triumph, which comes amid the ongoing civil war in the country, marks an extraordinary achievement for the club, as they are crowned champions not just in Sudan, but in two countries.

Triumph Amid Turmoil

The victory comes in the context of a brutal civil war that has raged across Sudan since 2023, displacing millions and claiming tens of thousands of lives, according to the United Nations. In an effort to escape the violence, both Hilal and Merrikh competed in the Mauritanian championship, where they finished in first and sixth place, respectively.

However, as per the rules set out by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), only national champions are eligible to enter the CAF Champions League, meaning the two clubs had to return to Sudan to compete in army-controlled areas. The national army recently regained control of the capital, Khartoum, after two years of occupation by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces. Nevertheless, the fighting continues in other parts of the country.

Sudanese Elite League: A Record 31st Title for Hilal

In a dramatic final match, Hilal demolished Merrikh after building a solid three-goal lead by half-time, securing their 31st Sudanese championship title, a record that extends their dominance in the country’s football scene. The goal difference played a crucial role in the title race, with Hilal (+11) edging out Al Ahly Madani (+6) on equal points, both teams having accumulated 14 points in the eight-team mini-league.

This latest triumph ensures that Hilal will continue their remarkable streak of competing in the CAF Champions League every season since 2004. In contrast, Al Ahly Madani will represent Sudan in the prestigious competition for the very first time.

Highlights from Around African Football

South Africa: Ribeiro’s Record-Breaking Goal

In South Africa, Lucas Ribeiro of Mamelodi Sundowns has been awarded best goal of the 2025 Club World Cup following a stunning solo effort against Borussia Dortmund. In a group-stage match, Ribeiro received the ball in midfield, stormed through the defence, and coolly slotted the ball past Dortmund’s goalkeeper Gregor Kobel. Unfortunately for Sundowns, the goal came in the 11th minute, sparking a Dortmund comeback, and the German side won the match 4-3.

Tanzania: Husseini’s Departure from Simba

In Tanzania, Simba FC captain Mohammed Husseini is set to depart after a 12-year spell at the club, where he helped maintain their dominance alongside local rivals Young Africans. Despite a successful career at Simba, including several Tanzanian league titles, the club has opted not to renew his contract. Simba had a mixed season, finishing as runners-up in both the CAF Confederation Cup and the Tanzanian Premier League.

Ghana: Zito’s New Role at Asante Kotoko

In Ghana, Abdul-Karim Zito has been promoted from caretaker to head coach of Asante Kotoko, following a solid season in which they finished third in the league and won the Ghana FA Cup. Zito’s impressive run with Dreams FC last year, where he guided them to the CAF Confederation Cup semi-finals, has earned him the job at the prestigious club.

Uganda: Minnaert’s Move to Vipers

Lastly, Belgian coach Ivan Minnaert has made a switch from Fassell in Liberia to the Vipers in Uganda. Under Minnaert’s guidance, Fassell secured their first-ever Liberian league title, finishing 11 points ahead of Heaven Eleven. At Vipers, Minnaert will be tasked with continuing their strong domestic form after narrowly clinching the Ugandan league title by just two points over NEC.