Sudan’s National Soccer Team Nears World Cup Amid Civil War, National Division

Sudan has been ravaged by a brutal civil war since 2023, causing tens of thousands of deaths, massive displacement, and a humanitarian catastrophe labeled by the UN as the world’s largest. Hunger and famine have become deliberate weapons of war, with aid convoys frequently looted or blocked, while foreign mercenaries, including Latin American fighters, have joined the conflict, exacerbating civilian suffering. Despite this devastation, a rare symbol of hope has emerged in Sudan’s national soccer team, which is on the cusp of qualifying for the FIFA World Cup for the first time in history. The team’s success is largely credited to Sudan’s top clubs, Al-Hilal and Al-Merrikh, which were allowed to compete in Mauritania’s Premier League, enabling players to maintain competitive form amid the war. Currently unbeaten and closely trailing Senegal in Group B of the CAF qualifiers, the soccer team's achievements have become a unifying force, inspiring Sudanese people amidst the ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis. This juxtaposition highlights both the deep challenges facing Sudan and the resilience of its people in pursuit of unity and pride through sport.