Al-Merreikh beat Al-Hilal to Sudan Cup glory

Al-Merreikh players hold Sudan Cup Khartoum - Abedalgoum Ashmeag Al-Merreikh beat Al-Hilal 3-1 on penalties to regain the Sudan Cup. After a goalless draw with few clear cut chances, Egyptian goalkeeper Essam El-Hadary saved three Al-Hilal spot-kicks to guide Al-Merreikh to glory. The result saw both team share silverware honours in Sudanese football, with Al-Hilal winning the league title. The match proved to be a dour affair watched by a record low attendance, as both teams cancelled each other out. The poor turnout has been put down to the failure of Sudanese clubs and the national team. Sports pundit Mohammedin Ahmed said Al-Hilal's defence looked fragile and weak, whereas Al-Merreikh did not have the firepower up-front. After the shootout, it was Al-Hilal's Diego Garzito who was left to rue what might have been, as Al-Merreikh manager Ricardo celebrated with his team.