Sudan head coach Kwasi Appiah believes his team earned their place at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) more than Ghana, following a resilient qualifying campaign marked by adversity.
The Falcons of Jediane sealed qualification for the continental showpiece, set to be hosted in Morocco later this year, after finishing second in Group F with eight points — two wins, two draws, and two defeats.
During the qualifiers, Sudan held Ghana to a goalless draw in Accra before Appiah’s men stunned the Black Stars 2-0 in Libya.
Speaking to CAFOnline, Appiah described Sudan’s qualification as “special,” particularly in light of the ongoing conflict in the country.
“It was very special, especially given the circumstances. Many people expected Ghana to qualify, but football has changed — no one can be taken for granted anymore,” he said.
“Of course, as a Ghanaian, I would have liked both teams to qualify, but my job is with Sudan. The players showed great commitment and deserved this success.”
The former Black Stars coach reflected on the significant challenges Sudan faced throughout the qualifiers, including the absence of domestic football for more than two years.
“It has been extremely tough. For more than two years, Sudan has had no league football, so selecting players has been challenging.
“We always had to play away from home, but the key was to change the players’ mentality — to make them see every venue as “home” and give their best for the people of Sudan.”
He credited the unity and determination of players from Al Hilal, Al Merreikh, and other Africa-based professionals as central to their achievement.
“The commitment of those from Al Hilal and Al Merreikh, along with others based in Africa, was crucial,” he added.
Sudan have now been drawn in Group E for the AFCON, where they will face Algeria, Burkina Faso, and Equatorial Guinea in what promises to be a fiercely contested group.
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