Sudanese football club Al-Hilalhas shown remarkable resilience in the face of adversity, defying expectations to reach the CAF Champions League quarter-finals despite being displaced by civil war. Forced to relocate to Mauritania, Hilal has continued to compete at the highest level, proving that determination and passion for the game can overcome even the most difficult circumstances.
From Civil War to Champions League Glory
The ongoing conflict in Sudan, which erupted in April 2023, forced Al Hilal and their biggest domestic rivals, Al Merrikh, to flee the country. The power struggle between the Sudanese army and a paramilitary force has devastated the nation, leading to the deaths of tens of thousands of people and displacing over 12 million, according to the United Nations.
Fans of Al-Hilal during the CAF Champions League match between Al Ahly from Egypt and Al-Hilal Omdurman from Sudan at Cairo International Stadium in Cairo, Egypt on 1 April 2023. (Photo by Ayman Aref/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
As the war made it impossible for Hilal to play or train in their homeland, they found a new temporary home in Mauritania, where they were offered the opportunity to compete in the Mauritanian championship. This move has given them regular match practice, allowing them to stay competitive in continental football.
A Coach’s Harrowing Escape
Hilal’s head coach, Florent Ibenge, who hails from the Democratic Republic of Congo, recalled the terrifying experience of fleeing Sudan with his family.
Coach Florent Ibenge at Al-Hilal during the CAF Champions League match between Al Ahly from Egypt and Al-Hilal Omdurman from Sudan at Cairo International Stadium in Cairo, Egypt on 1 April 2023. (Photo by Ayman Aref/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
“My family were with me in Sudan, and we fled to France via Djibouti. It was a sudden, frightening experience,” said the 63-year-old coach, who has been at Al-Hilal since 2022.
Despite these challenges, Ibenge has remained committed to leading Al Hilal through uncharted waters, guiding them to the CAF Champions League quarter-finals while also ensuring they remain competitive in their new domestic league.
Thriving in Mauritania
Hilal now plays their home matches at the national stadium in Nouakchott, Mauritania’s capital. Their gratitude towards their Mauritanian hosts is evident in the words of their captain, Mohamed Abdelrahman.
“We are extremely grateful to our Mauritanian brothers for allowing us to play in their national league. Playing in the Mauritanian championship has given us vital match practice for our African commitments.”
(7) Kahraba of AL Ahly team battle for possession with (38) Ousmane Diouf of al hilal team during the CAF Champions League match between Al Ahly from Egypt and Al-Hilal Omdurman from Sudan at Cairo International Stadium in Cairo, Egypt on 1 April 2023. (Photo by Ayman Aref/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Despite the turmoil, Hilal has excelled in Mauritania, currently sitting fourth in the league standings, with four games in hand. Their record of 11 wins, four draws, and only two losses shows their remarkable ability to adapt under pressure.
CAF Champions League Success
Al-Hilal’s CAF Champions League journey has been nothing short of inspirational. They topped Group A, earning a spot in the quarter-finals, where they will face defending champions Al Ahly of Egypt.
First leg: April 2, Cairo, Egypt
Second leg: April 8, Nouakchott, Mauritania
While facing Al Ahly is always a formidable challenge, Al-Hilal has proven their resilience time and time again. With a squad that has endured war, displacement, and uncertainty, they are mentally tough and prepared for battle.
Supporters of Sudanese football team al-Hilal Omdurman march together with their team’s flag and colours after their team’s CAF Champions League group stage match against Egypt’s al-Ahly SC, outside al-Hilal’s stadium in the Sudanese capital’s twin city of Omdurman on February 18, 2022. – The match was played without an audience according to a decision by the Confederation of African Football (CAF). (Photo by Ebrahim Hamid / AFP) (Photo by EBRAHIM HAMID/AFP via Getty Images)
Abdelrahman: A Symbol of Loyalty and Determination
Al-Hilal’s 31-year-old forward and captain, Mohamed Abdelrahman, has been a key figure in the club’s success. Having first played for the team in 2010 as a 16-year-old, he has had stints with Al Merrikh and Algerian side Bordj Bou Arreridj before returning to lead the ‘Blue Wave’ in their most challenging period.
His experience and leadership have been crucial in keeping Al-Hilal‘s squad focused amid uncertainty. As they prepare to take on Al Ahly, Abdelrahman and his teammates will be looking to continue their fairytale journey.
Can Hilal Continue Their Dream Run?
KHARTOUM, SUDAN – MARCH 19: Al Hilal Omdurman players gather for a team photo ahead of the CAF Champions League match between Al Hilal Omdurman v Mamelodi Sundowns in Khartoum, Sudan on March 19, 2022. (Photo by Mahmoud Hjaj/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)
The story of Al Hilal is one of hope, resilience, and determination. Despite being a club without a home, they have shown that football transcends borders and adversity.
Their upcoming clash with Al Ahly will be their toughest test yet, but Hilal has already beaten greater odds—escaping war, finding a new league, and excelling on the biggest stage in African football.
With their unyielding spirit and strong performances, could Hilal be on course for one of the most remarkable CAF Champions League campaigns in history?
