Former Sudan international Khaled Al-Zuma has predicted that Al-Hilal Omdurman will retain the Sudanese Premier League title, while warning that long-time rivals Al-Merreikh SC will remain strong contenders.
In an interview with WinWin, Al-Zuma said the ongoing dominance of the two clubs in domestic football is “logical”, arguing that no other team is currently equipped to challenge them for the championship in the competition’s 30th edition.
“I have no doubt that one of the two teams will win the title. It is too early for another team to compete with them. Their continued participation in external competitions and their involvement in the Rwandan league will make their task easier. The influx of foreign professionals in their ranks greatly enhances their position, in addition to the great potential of the two clubs.”
Dominance shaped by resources and experience
Al-Zuma pointed to structural advantages enjoyed by both sides, including their regular involvement in continental competitions and access to foreign players, as key reasons behind their sustained success.
He added that other clubs have struggled to keep pace, citing difficult conditions across the country and limited preparation time ahead of the new season.
“I think their usual rivalry will continue in the current edition. The rest of the league clubs are suffering from difficult conditions in the country and have not started preparing with 13 days remaining until the start of the competition.”
Al-Hilal seen as slight favourites
Despite acknowledging the strength of Al-Merreikh, Al-Zuma believes Al-Hilal hold a competitive edge heading into the new campaign.
“I think Al-Hilal’s advantage is clear, proven by their continued participation in international competitions and their participation in tough matches that have further strengthened the team and contributed to preparing them for a domestic competition that is less prestigious and of a lower quality than the African Champions League . Al-Merreikh’s victory in the derby match does not mean they are superior, as such matches are not subject to standards or pre-existing expectations. Even their upcoming match will be unpredictable. I think Al-Hilal is close to retaining the title, of course, with strong competition from their rival, and the team’s stars must be cautious and focused.”
Al-Ahli Madani tipped to impress
Al-Zuma also highlighted Al-Ahli Madani as a team capable of making an impact, though he stopped short of predicting a title challenge.
“Al-Ahli started their preparations at a good time, their management spends generously on them, and they receive good care. Their coach, Farouk Jabra, is one of the best coaches in the country.”
“I expect them to compete strongly, but I doubt they will win the title, although I am convinced of their legitimate ambition and good potential.”
Hope for stability beyond football
Beyond the pitch, Al-Zuma expressed hope that the upcoming league season could signal a broader return to normal life in Sudan.
“Holding the competition in the capital, Khartoum, gives a positive indication of the gradual return of life to normal. Its success and the achievement of its goals represent a great gain, regardless of the identity of the team that will be crowned champion. I hope that security and safety will return and peace will prevail throughout the country after the war has exhausted the citizen, displaced him, weakened the economy, and caused much destruction.”
A season of expectation and significance
With the new campaign set to begin in mid-May, attention will focus on whether Al-Hilal can maintain their dominance or if Al-Merreikh can disrupt their rivals’ ambitions.
For Al-Zuma, however, the outlook remains clear: the title race is likely to stay between Sudan’s two biggest clubs, even as the league carries wider significance for a country seeking stability.
