Last week, the RSF launched an intense ground and aerial assault on refugee camps surrounding the city of El-Fasher in an attempt to seize the last state capital in Darfur held by their rival, the Sudanese army.

The two warring sides have been locked in a bloody power struggle since April 2023. This has created the world’s largest humanitarian crisis and forced millions to flee their homes.

The UN said it had verified 148 killings between Thursday and Saturday, but warned the toll was much higher.

UN spokeswoman Ravina Shamdasani told the BBC their verification process was still ongoing and their number didn’t include Sunday’s violence.

“Credible sources have reported more than 400 killed,” said Ms Shamdasani.

At least nine humanitarian aid workers were among those killed, the UN said.

The refugee camps that surround El-Fasher – Zamzam and Abu Shouk – provide temporary homes to more than 700,000 people, many of whom are facing famine-like conditions.

In a statement released on Saturday, the RSF said it was not responsible for attacks on civilians and that scenes of killing in Zamzam were staged to discredit its forces.

The following day, the group said it had completed a “successful liberation” of the camp from Sudan’s army. The RSF accused the army of using Zamzam as “a military barracks, and innocent civilians as human shields”.

El-Fasher is the last major town in Darfur under army control and has been under siege by the RSF for a year. Sudan’s brutal civil war will enter its third year on Tuesday.

UN Human Rights Chief Volker Türk called on all parties involved to “renew their resolve to take meaningful steps towards resolving the conflict”.

Ahead of a conference on Tuesday in London to mark the conflict’s two-year anniversary, UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy announced a £120m food and aid package for Sudan.

He said Sudan’s stability is “vital for our national security”.

The UK will co-host the talks alongside the African Union and European Union.

Sadio Mane came closest to a winner for the visitors late on in Benina, Libya, but saw an attempted chip saved by Sudan keeper Mohamed Mostafa before his follow-up effort was blocked by a defender on the line.

Mostafa then pulled off a stunning low stop to keep out a header from Cherif Ndiaye.

Sudan could have taken all three points themselves as Walieldin Khedr sent a shot flashing past the post earlier in the second half.

The Falcons of Jediane sit a point clear of DR Congo at the top of Group B halfway through the African campaign, with Senegal a point further behind.

Only the group winners are assured of a place at the expanded 48-team World Cup finals next year.

The four best-placed sides from across the nine groups will enter play-offs for a spot at an intercontinental tournament which will provide the final qualifiers.

Elsewhere in Group B, Togo and Mauritania drew 2-2 in an entertaining contest in Lome.

Those four sides are all back in action on Tuesday when Sudan host South Sudan, Senegal welcome Togo and DR Congo travel to Mauritania.

The final four group fixtures will be split across September and October.

Sudan tame Teranga Lions

Almost two years on from the start of the civil war, and with the country’s top two domestic clubs now playing in Mauritania, Sudan coach James Kwesi Appiah has got supporters dreaming of reaching the World Cup finals for the first time.

In the nine-month hiatus since the last qualifying fixtures the Sudanese had remarkably booked a place at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations – eliminating four-time continental champions Ghana along the way.

But, returning to their bid to reach the United States, Mexico and Canada, Sudan almost made a disastrous start as goalkeeper Mustafa missed a clearing kick within the first 30 seconds.

However, he managed to recover and scramble the loose ball behind with Boulaye Dia set to pounce and slot into an empty net.

The hosts were not overawed by a side ranked as the second best in Africa, and 96 places above them, and Aboubaker Eisa missed a chance to slot Sudan in front in the 20th minute before Dia sent a header off target.

After the break Sudan midfielder Adbel Raouf tested Edouard Mendy with a low strike before having appeals for a penalty waved away as he challenged the keeper for the rebound.

Mane had sent an overhead kick narrowly wide before the former Liverpool forward was denied twice with 10 minutes remaining.

The West Africans remain unbeaten after five games in Group B but, with only two wins, have work to do to reach a third successive World Cup finals.​​​​​​​

Togo and Mauritania share points

Earlier on Saturday, Mauritania scored their first goals of the campaign as they secured a draw in Togo.

Thibault Klidje headed the hosts ahead in Lome in the fourth minute, and Mauritania came close to an equaliser when Aboubakary Koita hit the right-hand upright 10 minutes before the break.

The game sparked into life in the second half as the visitors scored twice in the space of four minutes to turn the game on its head.

First Koita levelled with a fine curing shot across goal and then Abdallahi Mahmoud was presented with a simple tap-in at the back post from Sidi Bouna Amar’s low cross.

Kevin Denkey dragged Togo level in the 69th minute when he dispossessed Lamine Ba in the box and rifled in a low shot.

After that both sides had chances to win it as Mauritania striker Pape Yade struck a post after capitalising on an error from Sparrowhawks goalkeeper Malcolm Barcoa and then Togo substitute Kwame Mawuena narrowly missed the target with a header.

Appiah, who previously led Ghana to the 2014 FIFA World Cup, has now guided Sudan’s Falcons of Jediane to another major tournament appearance.

Beyond their AFCON achievement, Sudan sits at the top of Group B in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, reinforcing their strong form.

Ahead of their upcoming matches against Senegal and South Sudan, Appiah expressed confidence in his squad’s ability to compete with the continent’s best.

“Senegal is a strong team, but they are not the only ones, and we are also one of the best teams on the continent,” he said.

“We have performed well, and everyone is now talking about the team as strong. We have achieved part of our goals, and now we aspire to achieve more.”

The coach also urged the Sudanese Football Association to ensure that player bonuses and incentives are settled ahead of these crucial fixtures.

“I hope that the federation will give incentive bonuses to the players, as they deserve it after the great performance they gave.

“Such incentives will help them achieve a positive result against a big team like Senegal, which will enhance our chances even more,” he added.

A pair of victories in this month’s World Cup qualifiers would bring Sudan closer to securing a historic spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The Falcons of Jediane are currently in Saudi Arabia, preparing for their 2026 World Cup qualifiers later this month.

However, Appiah, who leads the Sudanese side, has opted to stay away until his unpaid wages are settled.

Reports indicate that the former Black Stars boss even avoided a scheduled meeting with Sudan FA Vice President Osama Atta Al-Mannan after a recent visit to Ghana.

Despite the financial dispute, the Sudanese FA is reportedly working to resolve the matter as they aim to maintain stability in the team.

Sudan is set to face Senegal on March 18, followed by a clash with South Sudan on March 24 in the fifth and sixth rounds of Group B qualifiers. Currently, they lead the group with 10 points from four matches.

The team will then travel to Libya on March 17, 2025, ahead of their next qualification fixtures.

Meanwhile, Kwesi Appiah, who also serves as Head of Sporting Affairs at Asante Kotoko, was spotted in Kumasi on Thursday, attending the final burial of Francis Frimpong, popularly known as Nana Pooley.

The Falcons of Jediane secured their place in the tournament alongside Angola, while Ghana finished bottom of their group with only three points.

Osei-Fosu expressed confidence in Sudan’s qualification, citing Appiah’s leadership and experience as key factors. “I knew we would qualify ahead of Ghana and the other teams because we have James Kwasi Appiah, a man with vast experience,” Osei-Fosu stated on Asempa FM’s SportsNite Show.

He further praised Appiah for his notable achievements, including leading Ghana to the 2014 World Cup, where the team earned a historic draw against Germany. “That match was rated the best in the second round and even the entire tournament. Ghana vs USA was also the best match in the first round,” Osei-Fosu added.

In the qualifiers, Sudan drew 0-0 in the first leg against Ghana before securing a 2-0 victory in the second leg to seal their AFCON spot.

Mass sexual violence has been widely documented as a weapon of war in the country’s nearly two-year conflict.

But Unicef’s report is the first detailed account about the impact of rape on young children in Sudan.

A third of the victims were boys, who typically face “unique challenges” in reporting such crimes and seeking the help they need.

Unicef says that, although 221 rape cases against children have been officially reported since the start of 2024, the true number is likely to be much higher.

Sudan is a socially conservative country where huge societal stigma stops survivors and their families from speaking out about rape, as does the fear of retribution from armed groups.

The Unicef report provides an appalling window into the abuse of children in the country’s civil war.

Perhaps its most shocking revelation is that 16 of the victims were under the age of five years, including four infants.

Unicef does not say who is responsible, but other UN investigations have blamed the majority of rapes on the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), saying RSF fighters had a pattern of using sexual violence to terrorise civilians and suppress opposition to their advances.

The RSF, which is fighting this war against its former allies, the Sudanese Armed Forces, has denied any wrongdoing.

“The sheer scale of sexual violence we have documented in Sudan is staggering,” said Mohamed Chande Othman, chair of the UN’s fact-finding mission when its previous report was published in October.

According to evidence presented by international human rights groups, victims in the RSF’s stronghold of Darfur were often targeted because they were black African rather than Arab, apparently with the aim of driving them out of Sudan.

The UN humanitarian response for Sudan is already underfunded. Recent cuts in US aid are expected to reduce programmes to help the victims even further.

Harrowing details in Unicef’s report underscore the dire situation.

“After nine at night, someone opens the door, carrying a whip, selects one of the girls, and takes her to another room. I could hear the little girl crying and screaming. They were raping her,” recalls Omnia (not her real name), an adult female survivor who was held by armed men in a room with other women and girls.

“Every time they raped her, this girl would come back covered in blood. She is still just a young child. They only release these girls at dawn, and they return almost unconscious. Each of them cries and speaks incoherently. During the 19 days I spent there, I reached a point where I wanted to end my life.”

As a fractured nation at war, Sudan is one of the most challenging places on earth to access services and frontline workers.

The vast number of people displaced by the war has made women and children more vulnerable to attack – three out of four school-age girls are out of school, the UN says.

Trump government cuts end vital help

The devastating outcome of these crimes is aggravated by the fact that victims have few places to turn to for medical help, because many medical facilities have been destroyed, looted or occupied by the warring parties.

Recent US aid cuts may be endangering even the limited services available to protect children.

Unicef has been providing safe spaces for children through a network of local activists who have set up what are known as Emergency Response Rooms to deal with the crises in their communities.

The activists relied quite heavily on US aid, and most have been forced to shut down, according to a Sudanese coordinating committee that monitors them.

More broadly, the UN organization dedicated to protecting women’s rights says local organisations led by women are vital in delivering support to survivors of sexual violence. But they receive less than 2% of the total funding of the UN’s Sudan Humanitarian Fund.

The BBC learned that at least one of these local groups, known as “She Leads”, was forced to close when US funding was stopped.

It was not a big expense, measured in the tens of thousands of dollars, but enabled case workers to reach around 35 survivors a month, said Sulaima Elkhalifa, a Sudanese human rights defender who runs a government unit on combatting violence against woman and helped organize the private initiative.

Those who have been raped by armed men “don’t have the luxury of being depressed,” she told the BBC.

The demands of war – finding food, needing to flee – leave no space to deal with trauma, she added.

READ ALSO:

• CHRAJ Theft: Court jails job seeker for stealing mobile phone
• Confusion rocks the Forestry Commission over the new CEO’s alleged refusal to revoke ‘illegal’ promotions
• Tidal waves destroy 51 houses and displace over 300 in Agavedzi

The Falcons of Jediane have been drawn into Group F, where they will face Algeria, Burkina Faso, and Equatorial Guinea.

Reacting to the tournament draw, the former Ghana coach emphasized that Sudan is ready to compete without fear.

“Sudan is in Group E, and all the teams there are really good. For me, if you are participating in a competition, your goal should always be to aim for the cup,” he said.

“If you’re afraid of any team, then why are you participating in the competition in the first place? I believe Sudan will perform very well, and I’m hopeful that, no matter the team we face, we will try our best to get a victory,” Appiah added.

The 2025 AFCON is set to kick off on Sunday, December 21, with the final scheduled for Sunday, January 18, 2026.

Despite ongoing civil unrest in the country, Sudan’s national team, the Falcons of Jediane, has secured a spot in the prestigious competition, set to take place in Morocco later this year.

Appiah, who masterminded Sudan’s qualification at the expense of his home country, Ghana, remains optimistic ahead of the tournament.

Speaking to CAF ahead of the group stage draw on January 27, he said: “Once you’ve qualified for AFCON, as a coach, I don’t think you should have any preferences regarding who you’re drawn against.

“We must be ready to face anyone. If you fear any team, then you shouldn’t participate in the competition at all. The key is preparation and confidence.”

Under Appiah’s leadership, the Falcons of Jediane finished second in Group F with 8 points. They now aim to make a significant impact in Morocco, inspired by their coach’s unwavering determination and strategic mindset.

The Falcons of Jediane earned their spot in the prestigious tournament by finishing second in Group F during the qualifiers.

Despite the challenges posed by the absence of an active domestic league in Sudan, Appiah’s squad outperformed Ghana and Niger, securing a place behind group leaders Angola.

With the tournament set to take place in December 2025, the former Ghana head coach has set his sights on guiding Sudan to their first AFCON triumph.

“Winning the trophy is my goal,” said Appiah in an interview with Akoma FM.

“By God’s grace, we have qualified. We will prepare thoroughly to ensure we have a strong team before the AFCON.

“Once you’re in, you aim for the cup rather than coming out with nothing,” he added.

The 2025 AFCON is scheduled to kick off on December 21, 2025, with the official draw set for January 25 in Rabat, Morocco.

Sudan will now focus on assembling a competitive team to make their mark on the continental stage.

Appiah’s comments follow his team’s impressive qualification to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), set to take place in Morocco.

Sudan currently tops Group B with 10 points from four matches, a strong position that underscores their recent success.

Speaking to BBC Africa, Appiah emphasized the importance of aiming high.

“I tell [the players]: ‘How can you aim to go to the World Cup if you don’t put yourself at the level of Spain, England, or Brazil?’” he said.

The Ghanaian coach also highlighted the unifying power of football, referencing Sudan’s resounding 3-0 victory against South Sudan in Juba.

“Large sections of the crowd joined in with Sudan’s national anthem,” he said. “It brought a lot of unity to both countries.”

Sudan faces stiff competition in Group B alongside Senegal and DR Congo.

Appiah will aim to sustain the team’s strong momentum in the upcoming fixtures against Senegal and South Sudan, scheduled for Matchdays Five and Six in March 2025.

According to Appiah, the achievement momentarily united the Sudanese people, with celebrations replacing conflict.

Sudan’s home games had to be played on neutral grounds due to ongoing turmoil.

Despite these obstacles, Appiah guided the Falcons of Jediane to secure second place in Group F with eight points, ensuring their spot in the AFCON tournament.

Recalling the aftermath of their qualification, Appiah told BBC Africa: “After the qualification, we went to the Sudanese embassy, and the ambassador said, ‘Everybody had their guns down, and they were all jubilating on the streets.’”

Appiah highlighted the profound impact of football in conflict zones, saying, “Football is one of the keys that can unlock such wars,” he added.

The team’s journey to qualification has been a testament to resilience. Many players have endured personal losses amid the chaos, but Appiah inspired them to channel their struggles into motivation.

“Look at your relatives back home, what they’re going through, and let’s put some smiles on their faces,” he urged.

Sudan’s success extends beyond the AFCON qualifiers. The team currently leads Group B in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers with an impressive 10 points, showcasing their determination to rise above adversity.

His ambitious goal of leading Sudan to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) has now become a reality, a feat he hopes will contribute to easing the ongoing unrest in the country.

Appiah, who signed a three-year contract with the Sudanese Football Association (SFA) in early 2024, has defied the odds to secure Sudan’s spot in the tournament set to take place in Morocco in December 2025.

In an interview with BBC Africa, the former Ghana coach shared his aspirations and motivations for taking on the challenge.

“Qualifying for the Afcon was one of the targets I set for myself before I signed the contract,” he said.

“Another reason I signed was for the people in Sudan, because of the war back home. The players have shown a lot of dedication.”

Despite the humanitarian crisis and the personal struggles faced by his players, Appiah rallied his team to achieve the seemingly impossible.

He emphasized the role football can play in inspiring change and fostering unity.

“This is something the guys can do to help change the war – or stop the war – in Sudan, by trying to qualify for the AFCON or World Cup,” he explained.

Appiah’s leadership and vision have not only reignited Sudan’s football dreams but have also offered a glimmer of hope to a nation yearning for peace.

With Sudan now headed to AFCON 2025, the journey symbolizes the power of resilience and the unifying spirit of sports.

Since April 2023, Sudan has been engulfed in a civil war between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces.

In October, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres described the situation as a “nightmare of violence, hunger, disease, and displacement,” with nearly 25 million people in need of humanitarian aid.

Appiah, who previously coached Ghana, played a pivotal role in guiding Sudan to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Speaking to Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show, he shared his aspiration to win a significant achievement that could help bring peace to the country.

“I want the team to perform so we can achieve something for the people of Sudan which will bring an end to the unrest, and I believe that there is nothing too hard for God and I don’t underrate myself in anything,” the 63-year-old trainer said.

“I am hoping and believing that these players will support me so we can achieve something better for Sudan,” he added.

Due to the ongoing conflict, Sudan’s national team has been forced to train in Saudi Arabia, with a squad consisting solely of players from African clubs, many from Sudanese rivals Al Hilal and Al Merrikh.

These clubs are temporarily playing in the Mauritanian league due to the unstable political situation in Sudan.

The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, set to take place in Morocco, will run from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026.

READ ALSO

• Sudan coach Kwesi Appiah reveals target ahead of 2025 AFCON
• 2026 World Cup is next target after qualifying Sudan for AFCON – Kwesi Appiah

But he also emphasized how these challenges have motivated his players to excel.

During the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers, the Falcons of Jediane were forced to play their home matches in neutral venues due to the violence and instability in Sudan.

The situation has been dire, with the UN’s October report warning that Sudan’s population faces “violence, hunger, disease, and displacement,” with nearly 25 million people in need of urgent humanitarian assistance.

Appiah, who previously coached Ghana’s Black Stars before his dismissal in 2020, admitted that the situation has been tough, but also a source of motivation for his squad.

“Playing away from home has been difficult but I spoke to my players and I told them that due to the unrest, they should see any place we play our home games as their home ground,” he told Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show.

“This helped us to prepare our minds for the games. Knowing the situation, the players accepted to play even different roles because they were interested in achieving our target,” he added.

Despite these hurdles, Appiah has successfully led Sudan to qualify for the 2025 AFCON, which will take place in Morocco from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026.

Sudan’s only AFCON title came in 1970 when they hosted the tournament, but they have only advanced past the group stage once in the last 24 editions.

READ ALSO

• Sudan coach Kwesi Appiah reveals target ahead of 2025 AFCON
• 2026 World Cup is next target after qualifying Sudan for AFCON – Kwesi Appiah

Appiah, a former Ghana national team coach, led the Falcons of Jediane to secure their place in Africa’s premier football tournament by finishing second in Group F with 8 points.

Despite playing their home matches on neutral grounds due to an ongoing civil war, Sudan managed two wins, two draws, and two losses in the qualifiers.

Looking ahead to the competition, Appiah is optimistic about Sudan’s chances.

“For me, once we have been able to qualify, there is nothing we cannot do and I believe with the help of God, we will do well to ensure we do not embarrass ourselves but rather play to honour the country,” he told Asempa FM‘s Ultimate Sports Show.

Sudan’s only AFCON title came in 1970 when they hosted the tournament. Since then, their performances have been modest, with just one advancement beyond the group stage and participation in only three of the last 24 editions.

The 2025 AFCON will take place in Morocco from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026, offering Sudan a chance to make a significant impact on the continental stage.

READ ALSO

• Kwesi Appiah rules out possible return as Ghana coach
• I will support Black Stars to qualify for 2026 World Cup – Kwesi Appiah

The 63-year-old coach, who signed a three-year contract with the Sudanese Football Association earlier this year, has successfully led the team to secure a spot in next year’s AFCON tournament, set to be held in Morocco, despite the ongoing civil unrest in Sudan.

In the current World Cup qualifying campaign, Sudan leads Group B with 10 points from four matches played.

After guiding Sudan to AFCON qualification, Appiah expressed his ambition to take the team to the World Cup for the first time in the country’s history.

“When I was appointed, I was not given any target but rather I was told to build a team within a period number of years but I told them that would be difficult due to the unrest and it is just two clubs who were playing in CAF competitions,” he told Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show.

“Despite the unrest, I convinced them that I wanted to qualify for the AFCON and the World Cup and if only they could support me, we would achieve it and now we have qualified for the AFCON.”

Appiah also reflected on his time with the Sudanese team, mentioning that when he left Sudan in 2015, several players he coached at Al Khartoum were still part of the national squad, and they helped him reconnect with other players.

“When I left Sudan in 2015, five of the players I coached at Al Khartoum were still in the national team so I used them to help get in touch with other players and they helped me a lot,” he added.

He also commended the discipline of Sudanese players.

“Sudanese players are well-disciplined and they are always willing to do more so that helped me a lot. Even during the qualifiers, they always wanted to know if they were doing what was right or not.”

Sudan’s squad is made up entirely of players based in African clubs, many of whom play for domestic rivals Al Hilal and Al Merrikh. Due to Sudan’s political instability, both clubs are temporarily playing in Mauritania’s league.

The Falcons of Jediane will face Senegal and South Sudan in the fifth and sixth match days in March 2025.

READ ALSO

• Sudan coach Kwesi Appiah reveals target ahead of 2025 AFCON
• I will support Black Stars to qualify for 2026 World Cup – Kwesi Appiah

Having signed a three-year contract with Sudan earlier this year, Appiah has led the Falcons of Jediane to secure a spot in the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament.

During the qualification campaign, Sudan held Ghana to a goalless draw in Accra and later secured a 2-0 victory against the Black Stars in Benghazi, Libya.

Ghana’s failure to qualify for the upcoming tournament in Morocco has sparked calls for Black Stars head coach Otto Addo to step down.

Asked if he would consider a return, Appiah insisted that he remains committed to his role with Sudan.

“If you are a professional coach, you will have to always keep in mind that you must be ready for any opportunity but as of now, I have a contract with Sudan,” he told Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show.

“For now, I am focused on what I am doing with Sudan but for now, I don’t want to say anything because I don’t want to contradict myself,” he added.

Appiah previously managed the Black Stars from 2012 to 2014 and again from 2017 to 2020.

He is best remembered for guiding Ghana to qualify for the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil.

READ ALSO

• NDC govt will ensure Black Stars qualify for 2026 World Cup – Adams Abdul-Salam
• Asante Kotoko: Prosper Narteh Ogum calls to rally ahead of Super Clash with Hearts of Oak

The Falcons of Jediane secured second place in Group F of the qualifiers with eight points from six matches, edging out Ghana to earn a spot in the tournament. Their impressive performance has been attributed to the recent revitalization of the team under head coach Kwesi Appiah.

Osei-Fosu, a former head coach of Medeama SC and Techiman Eleven Wonders, joined Sudan’s technical team in 2023 under Appiah’s leadership. He lauded the Ghanaian tactician’s influence, crediting him for Sudan’s resurgence.

“Kwesi Appiah goes into every game with the expectation to win, and that is exactly what we are going to do in Morocco. However, we will take it game by game,” he told 3Sports.

“Our expectation going into AFCON 2025 is to win, and we believe we have the quality to do that,” Osei-Fosu added.

Since taking charge in September 2023, Appiah has breathed new life into the Sudanese side, with their qualification for AFCON seen as a testament to his strategic leadership.

While Sudan faces the challenge of competing against traditionally stronger teams, their newfound confidence and determination could make them formidable contenders. Osei-Fosu emphasized that belief and thorough preparation will be pivotal to achieving their lofty ambitions in Morocco.

READ ALSO

• Otto Addo’s future remains undecided, GFA to consult more
• Black Stars must be dissolved – Former Hearts of Oak chief Ernest Thompson

The conflict between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces militia began in April last year and has forced over 11 million people from their homes.

Aid workers say it has created the world’s worst humanitarian crisis – with the leading cause of death across the country being preventable disease and starvation.

Yet despite that backdrop, coupled with being forced to play their home ties outside of Sudan and the suspension of the domestic league, the Falcons of Jediane will represent their nation at the 2025 Afcon in Morocco.

“It’s something that’s consistently in our minds. Our families are still affected by the war,” forward Abobakar Eisa told Newsday on the BBC World Service.

“The manager always says: ‘When you’re putting on the shirt, you don’t just do it for your family and yourselves. You do it for everyone else’s family, and everyone in Sudan – for your whole country – to lift their spirits up.’

“We’re doing that through football, which is a beautiful thing. We know we’re playing for a much bigger cause.”

A draft United Nations Security Council resolution calling for a ceasefire in Sudan has been vetoed by Russia – a move which British foreign secretary David Lammy described as a “disgrace”.

Meanwhile, a recent study says the number of people killed since the conflict started is significantly higher than previously reported, with United States special envoy for Sudan Tom Perriello saying some estimates suggested up to 150,000 people had been killed.

“[My] family had to migrate to Egypt because you could walk out in the street and there’d be gunshots, or there’d be gunshots flying through windows or walls,” Eisa said.

“It’s very, very dangerous. We’re hoping it gets settled quickly, so people can find peace.

“It’s painful to speak about these things but you have to think that things are going to get better.”

Upsetting the odds – and Ghana

Image source: Sudan FA

Image caption: Sudan have been well supported in their ‘home’ games in the 2025 Afcon campaign

Sudan, ranked 110th in the world, were third seeds in their group when the 2025 Afcon qualifying draw was made in July.

However, taking four points from a double-header against four-time Nations Cup winners Ghana last month put the team, which is coached by former Black Stars player and manager Kwesi Appiah, a point away from reaching the finals.

Appiah’s side fell to a damaging 4-0 defeat away against Niger last week, but Eisa said the squad remained positive heading into their final game against already-qualified Angola on Monday.

“The Niger game took us by surprise,” the 28-year-old, who plays his club football in Thailand, explained.

“On the way home, we said to ourselves we’re more than capable. We knew we had pressure, but at the same time we knew we could get the job done.”

Sudan ground out a 0-0 draw in Benghazi, at their makeshift home stadium, to seal second spot in Group F.

Eisa said the side have fed off the support of the Sudanese diaspora in their two qualifiers hosted in Libya – as well as local supporters – after starting their campaign in South Sudan.

“We’ve had a really big following,” he added.

“Obviously it’s not home, it’s not Sudan, but at the same time it does feel like that with the support that they show and bring to us.

“[Against Angola it] was very loud. We couldn’t hear ourselves.”

Taking on the continent

The delayed 2021 Afcon was Sudan’s most recent outing at the continental showpiece, a campaign that ended in the group stage.

“As a kid, you grow up watching Africa Cup of Nations,” said Eisa, who was not involved last time around.

“To actually be a part of history, and with what’s going on in Sudan, is an amazing feeling.”

Next year’s finals in Morocco will not kick off until 21 December, a delay which Eisa described as “annoying” given the mood amongst the squad.

Yet, despite their handicaps, Sudan are also performing admirably in preliminaries for the 2026 Fifa World Cup.

They sit top of Group B, ahead of 2021 Afcon winners Senegal and two-time continental champions DR Congo, with the group winners assured of a place at the tournament in Canada, Mexico and the USA.

The Teranga Lions are scheduled to travel to face Sudan in March’s international window.

“Our attention quickly goes to that game,” Eisa said.

“It’s like we’ve actually got no time to think about the Afcon at this moment. Senegal are probably the favourites of the group, so we need to show what we’re about.”

With the Nations Cup to look forward to, booking a first-ever World Cup appearance would be all the more remarkable given Sudan’s circumstances – and bring some much needed pride to a nation riven by war.

The Falcons of Jediane secured their spot in the tournament following a goalless draw against Angola in the final round on Monday, finishing second in Group F with 8 points, behind Angola, who topped the group.

Following the achievement, Appiah, alongside assistant coach Ignatius Osei-Fosu and goalkeeper coach Eric Amponsah, celebrated in the dressing room by dancing to King Paluta’s popular song ‘Aseda.’

Appiah, who was appointed earlier this year on a three-year contract, achieved this remarkable feat despite Sudan’s ongoing political turmoil, which forced the team to play all their matches away from home.

Sudan, whose only AFCON title came in 1970 when they hosted the tournament, has faced difficulties in the modern era. The team has reached the knockout stage only once and qualified for just three of the last 24 editions.

However, with Appiah now at the helm, Sudan is aiming to make a strong impact in the 2025 AFCON. This will mark Sudan’s first AFCON appearance since 2012.

READ ALSO

• Kwesi Appiah leads Sudan to 2025 AFCON qualification amid civil challenges
• Ghana loses to Niger in Accra to end 2025 AFCON qualifiers without a win

The qualification was sealed after Sudan played out a goalless draw against Angola in their final Group F match on Monday at the Martyrs of February Stadium in Libya.

Sudan finished second in the group with eight points, behind Angola, who topped the group with 14 points.

Appiah, appointed on a three-year contract earlier this year, achieved this feat despite Sudan’s political instability, which forced the team to play all their matches away from home. Undeterred, the team secured crucial points to book their spot in Africa’s premier football tournament.

A standout moment in their campaign came in October when Sudan stunned Appiah’s former team, Ghana, with a 2-0 victory. This win proved decisive in their qualification bid.

Appiah’s achievement draws parallels to the late Sir Jones Attuquayefio, another Ghanaian coach who famously led Benin to the 2004 AFCON—a year when Ghana failed to qualify.

This year, history repeated itself as Ghana’s Black Stars ended their campaign at the bottom of Group F, failing to win a single match and scoring only three goals in six games.

Sudan, who won their only AFCON title in 1970 as hosts, have struggled in the tournament’s modern era. They have advanced beyond the group stage just once and qualified for only three of the past 24 editions.

However, with Appiah at the helm, they now look forward to making their mark in the 2025 edition.

The match saw Niger take an early lead in the 6th minute with a goal from Daniel Sosah, who plays for Kryvbas in Ukraine’s top league.

Youssef Oumarou doubled their advantage, and Sosah extended their lead with a penalty, making it 3-0.

Despite a second-half push by Sudan, led by coach Kwesi Appiah, the Falcons of Jediane could not recover, with Ousseini Badamassi adding a fourth for Niger.

The win lifts Niger to third place in Group F with four points from five matches, behind already-qualified Angola and Sudan, who have 12 and 7 points, respectively.

For Ghana, the result is a significant boost. Had Sudan earned a point, Ghana would have been officially eliminated from the tournament. Now sitting at the bottom of the group, the Black Stars still have a chance to qualify.

A win against Angola in their next match will elevate them to third place with five points, just two behind Sudan and one above Niger.

Ghana’s path to qualification will hinge on a victory over Niger at the Accra Sports Stadium on Monday, November 18, 2024, combined with a favorable result for Angola against Sudan.

If those conditions are met, the Black Stars could leapfrog Sudan to claim the final qualification spot in Group F.

The former Ghana international earned this recognition for his remarkable work as head coach of the Sudan national team, which he took over last year amid the country’s challenging circumstances.

Since assuming the role, Appiah has led Sudan in 12 matches, achieving 7 wins, 4 draws, and only 1 loss.

Under his leadership, the Falcons of Jediane are on the brink of qualifying for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) following a crucial 2-0 victory over Ghana in Libya, after a goalless draw in the first leg at the Accra Sports Stadium.

Sudan is second in Group F with seven points, trailing Angola by three points. With two matches remaining, they are just one draw away from securing their spot in the AFCON.

Additionally, the team is leading their 2026 World Cup qualifying Group B, with ten points, two points ahead of Senegal after four games.

Appiah, a former coach of the Ghana national team, will be competing for the Coach of the Year title against notable names such as Emerse Fae, Hugo Broos, Pedro Gonçalves, and Jose Gomes, among others.

The CAF Awards ceremony is set to take place in mid-December in Morocco.

Eisa’s remarks follow Sudan’s remarkable performance in the qualifiers for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Under Appiah’s guidance, the team achieved a 2-0 victory against Ghana in Libya, building on a goalless draw in the first leg at Accra Sports Stadium.

This victory is particularly significant as it comes 18 months into the civil war between Sudan’s army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) militia.

Despite the ongoing turmoil, Sudan is close to qualifying for the AFCON, needing just one point from their next two matches—a milestone they last reached in 2021.

Speaking to BBC Sport Newsday, Eisa highlighted the broader importance of these games amid the chaos: “With the things that are going on in Sudan right now, the civil war, we’re playing a much bigger game. People are in the streets to watch the games, and this is giving them a lot of joy amongst the chaos that’s been going on. It makes them feel proud.”

Since his appointment in September 2023, Appiah has achieved an impressive record of nine wins, five draws, and four losses in 18 matches.

Eisa emphasized the coach’s impact on the team, particularly in boosting the players’ confidence.

“He brings a lot of experience and he’s changed our mentality into thinking we could beat anyone,” he said.

“I think that’s the biggest difference that you’re seeing here with the Sudanese team. Everyone knows that he’s a legend in his country and what he’s done for his country. But he’s told us he believes that we could do something big together. We’re going step by step but it is coming to fruition now,” he added.

In the AFCON qualifiers, Sudan has secured seven points, with two wins and just one loss. If Appiah successfully leads the team to the 2026 World Cup, his status in Sudanese football could elevate to legendary status.

Currently, Sudan tops their World Cup qualifying group, having outperformed notable teams like Senegal, DR Congo, and Togo.

READ ALSO

• 2025 AFCONQ: I felt dead after Sudan defeat – Otto Addo
• We still have a chance to qualify for 2025 AFCON – Otto Addo insists

The four-time African champions was hoping to return to winning ways after losing to Angola and a draw with Niger in their opening games.

However, the Black Stars struggles continued as they played to a goalless draw in the first leg against Sudan at the Accra Sports Stadium, followed by a 2-0 loss in the return leg, which took place in Libya.

Speaking to the Ghana FA media, the 45-year-old coach admitted that the defeat was personally difficult for him.

He acknowledged that support from family and friends was crucial in helping him regain his focus and move forward.

Addo described the past days as emotionally challenging but said the encouragement he received from his loved ones played a key role in lifting his spirits.

“To be honest I was like, the last two days I was dead but now I got a lot of positive feedback also and a lot of support from family and friends and this is the time where I need them and also I think all the players, all the team needs it and this brought me back on track,” Addo said.

The loss has put Ghana in a tough spot, with only two points from four games.

To have a chance at qualifying for the tournament, the Black Stars must win their final group matches against Angola and Niger in November and hope that Sudan drops points in their remaining games.

READ ALSO

• We still have a chance to qualify for 2025 AFCON – Otto Addo insists
• 2025 AFCONQ: It was a hard pill – Ghana coach breaks silence after losing to Sudan

The senior national team had hoped to secure their first win in the qualifiers after a disappointing start, but their struggles continued.

Following a goalless draw at the Accra Sports Stadium, the Black Stars suffered a 2-0 defeat in the return leg at the Martyrs of February Stadium in Libya.

The loss has put Ghana’s chances of qualification in jeopardy, with the team earning only two points out of a possible 12 after four matches, leaving them in 3rd place in Group F.

“Everybody was down, and the loss was a really hard pill to take. It’s not over yet; mathematically, there is still a chance, and we will do everything we can to keep this chance alive,” Addo told the Ghana FA Media.

“We have a lot to learn, and I think this is a valuable experience. It’s really disappointing that we couldn’t at least win our home games to put ourselves in a better position for the away matches. We need to improve. It’s painful, but we can certainly use this as a lesson to learn from our mistakes,” he added.

Ghana will look to turn things around when they resume their final group matches in November, facing Niger and Angola.

They will hope to secure wins while banking on Sudan, who currently sit 2nd with seven points, losing to Angola and Niger.

READ ALSO

• 2025 AFCONQ: It is shameful we could not win our home games – Otto Addo
• We still have a chance to qualify for 2025 AFCON – Otto Addo insists

Kudus, who plays for West Ham United, was designated as the captain for the crucial doubleheader in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers after Thomas Partey was sidelined due to medical issues.

Although Jordan Ayew was next in line to lead the team, Kudus was ultimately chosen to fill the role.

The Black Stars, however, struggled in the matches, drawing 0-0 in the first leg at the Accra Sports Stadium before suffering a 2-0 defeat in the return leg at the Martyrs of February Stadium in Libya.

“I’m not convinced under what circumstance, where we have a Black Stars [captaincy] structure, where who is the captain and the next in line [are defined], and I mean, in such a crucial moment, the captaincy was given to Kudus. There are so many things but we are not there,” Afriyie told Joy Sports.

As a result of these performances, Ghana now finds itself third in Group F, with just two points from four games, putting them on the brink of missing out on AFCON qualification for the first time in 20 years.

The Black Stars will return to the pitch in November for their final two qualifying matches against Niger and Angola, needing both Sudan to lose their matches and themselves to win both games to secure a spot in the tournament set to take place in Morocco next year.

READ ALSO

• 2025 AFCONQ: We are sorry – Mohammed Kudus apologizes after Black Stars shocking defeat to Sudan
• Abandon AFCON, World Cup dream and focus on development – GFA told

Sudan beat the Black Stars 2-0 in a home game played in neutral Libya on Tuesday and need just one point from their last two qualifiers next month to secure a place at the finals.

The civil war between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) militia began in April last year, leaving millions displaced and many facing famine as the country experiences the world’s worst humanitarian crisis.

“With the things that are going on in Sudan right now, the civil war, we’re playing a much bigger game,” Eisa told Newsday on the BBC World Service.

“People are in the streets to watch the games, and this is giving them a lot of joy amongst the chaos that’s been going on. It makes them feel proud.

“Obviously we are hoping that our country gets better, and hopefully we could be a positive thing for our country as well.”

The impact of Appiah

Image source: Getty Images

Image caption: Sudan boss Kwesi Appiah coached Ghana at the 2013 Afcon and 2014 World Cup

Sudan did become African champions on home soil in 1970 but have failed to make an impact in continental competition since then.

However, head coach Kwesi Appiah has overseen recent progress and the Falcons of Jediane have also made a promising start in qualifiers for the 2026 Fifa World Cup.

They were ranked 50 places below Ghana ahead of their Group F double-header this month but their 2-0 victory in Benina followed a 0-0 draw in Accra last Thursday.

Eisa has hailed the impact of Appiah, a Ghanaian who previously managed the Black Stars at the World Cup and Afcon.

“He brings a lot of experience and he’s changed our mentality into thinking we could beat anyone,” the 28-year-old said.

“I think that’s the biggest difference that you’re seeing here with the Sudanese team.

“Everyone knows that he’s a legend in his country and what he’s done for his country. But he’s told us he believes that we could do something big together.

“We’re going step by step but it is coming to fruition now.”

Achieving qualification ‘dream’

Image source: Getty Images

Image caption: Abobaker Eisa was released by League Two club Grimsby Town at the end of last season

Sudan have only featured once at the Afcon finals since 2013, and reaching the 2025 edition in Morocco would be all the more remarkable given the ongoing conflict in the country and the fact the side have been forced to hold their home qualifiers at neutral venues.

“It puts us on the brink of a historic qualification,” Sudanese journalist Abdul Musa told the BBC World Service.

“Everybody knows the situation back home, and it just shows that the togetherness, the chemistry within the team.”

Sudan will round off their Group F campaign with an away tie against Niger and a ‘home’ game against Angola next month.

Both matches are set to be at neutral venues as Niger do not have a stadium fit for international football.

“I think every African kid grew up watching the Africa Cup of Nations and wanting to be a part of it,” said former Bradford City and Grimsby Town man Eisa, who now plays in Thailand.

“Now that we’ve come so close to it, we still need to finish the business. But it’ll be a dream come true for me and for a lot of us.”

The apology came after Ghana’s national team suffered a 2-0 loss to Sudan in the second leg of the qualifiers on Tuesday in Libya. The first leg had ended in a goalless draw at the Accra Sports Stadium last week.

In his statement, Kudus, who captained the Black Stars in the absence of Thomas Partey, expressed his remorse: “As someone who led the team in both games, I am issuing this statement with great humility and a deep sense of responsibility. On behalf of the entire team, I extend our sincerest apologies to the people of Ghana for our recent performances against Sudan in Accra and Libya.”

The West Ham United forward assured fans that the team is committed to learning from their setbacks in the double-header against Sudan and improving in future matches.

“We want to assure Ghanaians that we are dedicated to learning from our mistakes, regrouping, and working tirelessly to bring the Black Stars back to our former glory. We appreciate your unwavering support and loyalty, and we are determined to make you proud again.”

Ghana currently sits third in Group F with two points from four matches, putting their chances of qualifying for the AFCON at risk for the first time in 20 years.

The Black Stars will face Niger and Angola in their final two group matches in November. To qualify for the tournament in Morocco next year, they need to win both games and hope Sudan loses their remaining matches.

This follows Sudan’s impressive 2-0 victory over Ghana in the Matchday 4 qualifier, played at the Martyrs of February Stadium in Libya.

The win, masterminded by the 65-year-old coach, propelled the Falcons to second place in Group F, with seven points from four games, just two points behind group leaders Angola.

During the post-match press conference, Appiah expressed mixed emotions about the result.

While he celebrated the crucial win for Sudan, he also acknowledged his personal connection to Ghana, making the victory bittersweet.

“Every game is serious, but Insha Allah, we will try to secure at least a win in the next match to qualify automatically,” Appiah said.

“It’s unfortunate because Ghana has a strong team, and it’s regrettable that they have to exit the competition. But Sudan has managed to beat them, so we will keep pushing forward.”

Meanwhile, Ghana is now third in the group with just two points.

The Black Stars face a challenging path ahead, needing to win their remaining games against Niger and Angola, while also relying on other results to keep their hopes alive for AFCON 2025 qualification.

READ ALSO

• 2025 AFCONQ: Ex-midfielder slams Black Stars’ poor performance after defeat to Sudan
• I was wrong for supporting Otto Addo’s return – Agyemang-Badu

On Tuesday, Ghana lost 2-0 to the Falcons at the Martyrs of February Stadium in Libya.

The defeat has left Ghana’s hopes of qualifying for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco next year in jeopardy, as they have only managed to accumulate two points from four games in the 2025 AFCON qualifiers.

Mr. Afriyie criticized the GFA, the technical team, and the Management Committee, blaming them for the lack of preparation that led to the loss against Sudan.

“I had the opportunity to watch both games and what cost us was lack of proper planning and these games, we had to play two games and I am still struggling to understand why Ghaba might not qualify for a 24-team tournament,” he said on Asempa FM‘s Ultimate Sports Show.

“It is bad for us, and it is all about lack of proper planning on behalf of the coach, the Black Stars Management Committee, and the Ghana Football Association,” he added.

Currently, Ghana is in 3rd place with two points from four matches. They will conclude their AFCON qualifiers with final games against Niger and Angola.

To qualify for the tournament, the Black Stars must win both of their remaining matches and hope that Sudan loses their last two games.

READ ALSO

• I was wrong for supporting Otto Addo’s return – Agyemang-Badu
• 2025 AFCONQ: It is unfortunate for Ghana – Kwesi Appiah speaks after Sudan’s 2-0 win

In the second leg of Matchday Four, Ghana faced Sudan at the Martyrs of February Stadium on Tuesday afternoon.

After a goalless first half, Sudan broke the deadlock in the 62nd minute, taking advantage of a defensive error by Ghana, with Ahmed Hamed Mahmoud scoring the opener.

Just three minutes later, Mohammed Abdelrahman doubled Sudan’s lead, leaving the Black Stars with no response and increasing pressure on coach Otto Addo and his technical team.

Speaking in an interview, Agyemang Badu did not hold back in his criticism of the national team’s performance, expressing disappointment with their approach and overall state.

“The national team is in a ditch; we don’t need to sugarcoat things anymore. Personally, I am tired. We have to be humble and go back to the basics. From the local league to the U-17, U-20, U-23 teams, the local Black Stars, and even the women’s teams like the U-17, U-20, and Black Queens, there is nothing happening,” the former U-20 World Cup winner told Onua FM.

“For the last 15 matches, the Black Stars have won only two games. People thought we would win because we created chances last week but couldn’t score. But even if we won this match, the team still isn’t good. We’ve changed coaches six times, yet the same problems persist. I think there are people who are escaping accountability.”

He continued to criticize the players’ performances, saying, “These are the players who perform well for their clubs, but once they come to play for Ghana, everything changes. Even simple ball control becomes difficult. Look at the goal we conceded—two defenders and the player passes between them. I don’t know if they were trying to block the ball or what. The basic thing in football is to clear the ball. If you do that, what’s the harm? We lack a team, character, passion—everything. You can’t defend these kinds of mistakes.”

Agyemang Badu also pointed out the team’s inefficiency in set pieces, saying, “In our last two games, we had more than 30 set pieces and didn’t convert a single one. Our open play isn’t working, individual efforts aren’t clicking, and even set pieces aren’t yielding results.”

The Black Stars are currently third in Group F with just two points from four games. They will conclude their qualifiers with a home match against Niger before travelling to face Angola next month.

READ ALSO

• 2025 AFCONQ: It is unfortunate for Ghana – Kwesi Appiah speaks after Sudan’s 2-0 win
• 2025 AFCONQ: Sack Otto Addo now – Ghanaians reacts after Black Stars 2-0 defeat to Sudan

His remarks follow after Black Stars’ 2-0 defeat to Sudan on Tuesday at the Martyrs of February Stadium in the return leg, with the first leg ending in a goalless draw at the Accra Sports Stadium.

Sudan secured their victory with goals from Ahmed Hamed Mahmoud and Mohammed Abdelrahman, putting the Falcons ahead and leaving Ghana’s chances of qualifying for the tournament in Morocco in jeopardy.

“It’s unfortunate for Ghana. Ghana has a good team but it’s unfortunate that only one of us can go through,” Sudan’s head coach, Kwesi Appiah said.

“I’m happy we’ve been able to put a smile on Sudanese faces,” he added.

With the win, Sudan now has seven points in Group F, while Ghana remains with just two points, making their qualification prospects significantly more difficult.

Ghana will end its qualifying campaign with a home game against Niger, followed by their final match away against Angola.

READ ALSO

• 2025 AFCONQ: ‘Poor’ Black Stars suffer 2-0 defeat against Sudan to shut down chances
• 2025 AFCONQ: Sack Otto Addo now – Ghanaians reacts after Black Stars 2-0 defeat to Sudan

The four-time African champions faced off against the Falcons in the return leg on Tuesday at the Martyrs of February Stadium in Libya.

Ghana entered the match needing a win to keep their qualification hopes alive after a disappointing start to the qualifiers, which saw them record two draws and a loss. Coach Otto Addo made a single change to the starting lineup, replacing Jordan Ayew with Inaki Williams.

The Black Stars began the game brightly, but Sudan was resolute and determined to secure a positive result.

In the 7th minute, Kwesi Appiah’s early attempt was thwarted by Ghanaian goalkeeper, Ati Zigi, who made a crucial save.

Sudan responded with a counter-attack four minutes later, but Ati Zigi once again came to Ghana’s rescue, ensuring the score remained goalless. Despite the Black Stars’ efforts, the Sudanese team dominated much of the match, putting Ghana under intense pressure. Abubakar Mohamed nearly scored in the 14th minute, but his curling shot was punched away by Ati Zigi.

Sudan continued to press and maintain control of the game. Ghana had a brief scare when Mohammed Salisu appeared to handle the ball, but the referee did not call for an infringement despite a foul on a Sudanese player during a counter-attack.

Ghana had a chance to take the lead before halftime, but Sudanese goalkeeper Mohammed Mustafa made a key save, keeping the match goalless as the first half ended.

In the second half, the Black Stars appeared more determined. Inaki Williams found the back of the net, but the goal was disallowed for a handball. Ghana had another chance in the 52nd minute, but Sudan’s defense held firm.

Coach Addo made substitutions in the 56th minute, bringing on Jordan Ayew and Abdul Fatawu Isaahaku to replace Ernest Nuamah and Antione Semenyo. However, Sudan continued to execute their game plan, defending deep and countering effectively.

Their persistence paid off in the 62nd minute, when Mahmoud Mohamed capitalized on a defensive error by Salisu, scoring the opening goal. Just four minutes later, Sudan doubled their lead through Mohammed Abdel-Rahman, putting Ghana in a difficult position.

Otto Addo made further changes, introducing Tariq Lamptey, Michael Baidoo, and Jonas Adjetey to try and turn the game around. But despite their best efforts, the Black Stars could not find a breakthrough, and Sudan nearly scored a third goal in the 71st minute.

Kwesi Appiah’s side managed to control the game towards the end, but it was too late to avoid a disappointing result.

The loss leaves Ghana in third place with just two points from four games.

To qualify for AFCON 2025, which will be hosted in Morocco, the Black Stars must win their remaining matches against Niger and Angola in November and hope that Sudan drops points in their upcoming fixtures.

The national team was seeking its first victory in the qualifiers after a challenging start.

Earlier, Ghana had faced a 1-0 defeat against Angola at the Baba Yara Stadium and managed a 1-1 draw against Niger in Berkane.

In a doubleheader against Sudan, the Black Stars were held to a goalless draw at the Accra Sports Stadium last Thursday.

However, in the reverse fixture at the Martyrs of February Stadium in Libya, the team was beaten 2-0 by Kwesi Appiah’s squad.

Second-half goals from Ahmed Hamed Mahmoud and Mohamed Abdelrahman secured the win for Sudan’s Falcons.

The results leave Ghana in third place in Group F, with only two points from four matches.

The Black Stars are set to end their qualifiers with a match against Niger at the Accra Sports Stadium, followed by an away game against Angola in Luanda next month.

Following the recent defeat, many Ghanaians took to social media, calling for Otto Addo to be sacked as coach of the national team.

Below are some of the reactions:

Kasa by heart
Sack Otto Addo
Sack Ten Hag
Sack everybody
and now apologize to the Ayew brothers because they were never the problem pic.twitter.com/rx6ZAi0mE9

— MR PAPPY (@mrpappy__) October 15, 2024

Sack Otto Addo now ! https://t.co/U0HqNAP40o

— ឵឵឵ ឵឵឵ Sekunde𓋹 (@Kofi_Phanteboi) October 15, 2024

Sack Otto addo in Libya before you get here!!!!!!! You people will
Hate me! https://t.co/SbER6inTxi

— N.K.A. (@Kwesi__nAnA) October 15, 2024

Use team.

Sack Otto Addo now
Sack Otto Addo now
Sack Otto Addo now
Sack Otto Addo now
Sack Otto Addo now
Sack Otto Addo now

— Seth Owusu (@SethOwu29398726) October 15, 2024

Sack Otto Addo#BlackStars pic.twitter.com/ecr5vwhdcO

— Rapony (@Rapony21) October 15, 2024

Sack Otto Addo, Sack Kudus, sack Alidu Seidu, infact sack everybody!! Dissolve the #BlackStars team now pic.twitter.com/dLc5Sce16b

— ghfrimpzy.com (@ghfrimpzy) October 15, 2024

Ghana football has been reduced to nothing under the leadership of corrupt FA president; Kurt Okraku. A corrupt Sports minister; Mustapha Ussif & an inexperienced coach; Otto Addo. Sack these 3 guys now ! #BlackStars

— c for cunnilingus (@Kennie233) October 15, 2024

#OttoAddoOut#OttoAddoOut#OttoAddoOut#OttoAddoOut#OttoAddoOut#OttoAddoOut#OttoAddoOut#OttoAddoOut#OttoAddoOut#OttoAddoOut

— 𝐂𝐇𝐀𝐍𝐂𝐄𝐋𝐋𝐎𝐑 (@Ohene_Khojo) October 15, 2024

#OttoAddoOut#OttoAddoOut#OttoAddoOut#OttoAddoOut#OttoAddoOut#OttoAddoOut#OttoAddoOut#OttoAddoOut#OttoAddoOut#OttoAddoOut

— 𝐂𝐇𝐀𝐍𝐂𝐄𝐋𝐋𝐎𝐑 (@Ohene_Khojo) October 15, 2024

Shambles. Sack them all

— Rahman osman (@iamrahmanosman) October 15, 2024

Sack him Now !!!#BlackStars, Salisu, Ashimeru, “Serwaa Amihere”, “Serwaa Amihere””Alidu Seidu” Otto Addo@ pic.twitter.com/KX1Q471qHZ

— Osu official TV (@OsuofficialTV) October 15, 2024

They will sack Otto Addo and try to give the job to Kwesi Appiah
But Kwesi Appiah will be wise enough to stay away from this useless Black Stars team

— Kay (@Kaypoisson1) October 15, 2024

Plenty talks less action. We for sack this guy! pic.twitter.com/xtJlG0Kx8Z

— JOE (@Pasky_wan) October 15, 2024

Ghana is set to face Kwesi Appiah’s team in the second leg of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers at the Martyrs of February Stadium, with kickoff scheduled for 13:00 GMT.

In a notable change, Inaki Williams has been brought in to replace Jordan Ayew in the starting XI.

Lawrence Ati-Zigi will remain in goal, supported by a defensive lineup of Alidu Seidu, Gideon Mensah, Mohammed Salisu, and Alexander Djiku.

In midfield, Sulemana Ibrahim will partner with Elisha Owusu. The attacking front will feature Antoine Semenyo, Ernest Nuamah, and Mohammed Kudus, with Inaki Williams spearheading the attack.

The Black Stars currently sit third in Group F and are determined to turn their fortunes around after going three matches without a victory.

Below is the lineup:

The Black Stars will be hosted at the Martyrs of February Stadium in the Matchday four games with kick-off scheduled at 13:00 GMT.

The senior national team were held to a goalless scoreline at the Accra Sports Stadium in the first leg of the doubleheader last week Thursday.

Ahead of the much-anticipated game, the clash will be played behind closed doors.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has communicated the decision for the game to be played behind closed doors to both Sudan and Ghana.

However, the reason behind this decision by CAF remains unknown.

Ghana is desperate for a win to revive their chances of qualifying for the tournament that will be hosted in Morocco next year after failing to secure a win in three games.

The Black Stars opened their qualifying games with a 1-0 defeat against Angola before a 1-1 draw against Niger which leave them at the 3rd spot with two points.

Meanwhile, Sudan has recorded a win, a draw and a defeat which leaves them at the 2nd spot with four points.

READ ALSO

• 2025 AFCONQ: We are mentally ready to face Sudan – Ghana coach
• 2025 AFCONQ: It is now time to win – Otto Addo ahead of Sudan clash

In their first leg of the doubleheader, the Black Stars were held to a 0-0 draw by Sudan at the Accra Sports Stadium, while Angola defeated Niger to maintain their perfect record in the qualifiers.

These results have left Ghana with a challenging path ahead, but Addo believes the team can still control their fate.

Ahead of the crucial second leg against Sudan in Libya, Addo commented, “I think it was good that Angola won. If Niger had won, they would have overtaken us, and that would have been problematic.”

“The situation is still in our hands, and we need to win this match tomorrow. As long as we’re in second place, I believe we can defeat any of the teams we’ve faced so far. We’re aiming for a win tomorrow to get back on track,” he added.

A victory for Ghana would see them leapfrog Sudan in the standings, strengthening their position ahead of the final two qualifying matches in November.

However, anything less than a win could jeopardize their chances of securing a spot in next year’s tournament in Morocco.

The match is set to take place at the Martyrs of February Stadium, with kick-off scheduled for 13:00 GMT.

READ ALSO

• 2025 AFCONQ: It is now time to win – Otto Addo ahead of Sudan clash
• 2025 AFCONQ: We are mentally ready to face Sudan – Ghana coach

Ghana, who is four-time African champion, is without a win after three games into the qualifying games.

The Black Stars shockingly suffered a 1-0 defeat to Angola at the Baba Yara Stadium before a 1-1 draw against Niger.

Otto Addo’s men were hoping to secure their first win but were held to a goalless scoreline against Sudan in the first leg of the doubleheader at the Accra Sports Stadium last week which leave them at the 3rd spot with two points.

However, speaking to Citi Sports, Agyemang-Badu, who played in the 2015 AFCON final with the Black Stars believes that failure to qualify would be a bad mark in Ghana football.

“In case it happens, then the football is dipping. For some years, Ghanaians didn’t ask how we were going to qualify, they always spoke about how to win the cup (AFCON) but if we have left the cup to the semifinals, to quarterfinals and now we are struggling at the group stages and now even qualification is getting problematic,” the U-20 FIFA World Cup winner said.

“Let’s pray it doesn’t get there because if it gets there, that means our football is doomed,” he added.

Meanwhile, Ghana will clash with Sudan in the return fixture later today at the Martyrs of February Stadium later today with kick-off scheduled for 13:00 GMT.

READ ALSO

• 2025 AFCONQ: We are mentally ready to face Sudan – Ghana coach
• 2025 AFCONQ: It is now time to win – Otto Addo ahead of Sudan clash

After a goalless score in the first leg against Sudan at the Accra Sports Stadium last week Thursday, Ghana will play the Falcons at the Martyrs of February Stadium in Libya in the return leg in the matchday four games of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.

The senior national team are still searching for their first win after three games, having drawn two and lost one, placing them third in Group F.

“I was very satisfied with the training. I think the boys adapted well. They are all ready and willing to put the last result behind them,” the 45-year-old coach said in an interview with the GFA Media team.

Addo acknowledged the team’s struggles in front of goal but expressed confidence in securing a victory against the Falcons of Jediane.

“It’s obvious that we need goals. We created many chances against Angola; we deserved to win that game. We didn’t perform well against Niger, but I believe we also deserved to win, though luck wasn’t on our side.

“If we play like we did in the last game, we will win,” he added.

A win for Ghana would see them move above Sudan ahead of the final two matches of the qualifiers in November. However, anything less than a win would complicate the Black Stars’ chances of qualifying for the tournament in Morocco.

The match is scheduled to kick off at 13:00 GMT.

READ ALSO

• 2025 AFCONQ: We are mentally ready to face Sudan – Ghana coach
• 2025 AFCONQ: It is now time to win – Otto Addo ahead of Sudan clash

The Black Stars will face off against the Falcons in a pivotal Matchday four encounter of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers at the Martyrs of February Stadium.

In a pre-match interview, Addo emphasized that his squad has undergone thorough preparations, particularly focusing on improving their goal-scoring capabilities.

He remains optimistic about securing a victory that will set them on the path to qualifying for the upcoming AFCON tournament.

“And I think the boys are mentally ready and yeah, this is the only thing which is missing. We have to score,” he said.

“We have to score. We have to believe in ourselves. Is very important. If we believe the goals will come,” he added.

The Black Stars have faced challenges in the qualifiers so far, managing only two points from their first three matches. They began with a narrow 1-0 loss to Angola, followed by a 1-1 draw with Niger, and a scoreless draw against Sudan.

A win against Sudan on Tuesday would elevate Ghana to second place in Group F, significantly enhancing their chances of advancing to the next AFCON tournament. The match is set to kick off at 13:00 GMT.

READ ALSO

• 2025 AFCONQ: We are capable of beating any side in Group F – Ghana coach Otto Addo
• 2025 AFCONQ: Black Stars hold final training session ahead of Sudan clash [Photos]

Ghana will face the Falcons in the second leg of their doubleheader on Matchday four. All is  set for Tuesday afternoon at the Martyrs of February Stadium.

Speaking ahead of the game, the 45-year-old coach expressed his hope that luck would be on Ghana’s side to earn a crucial three points.

Addo emphasized that the team had been unfortunate not to secure wins against Angola and Sudan in their last two matches.

“I’m very satisfied with the training. I think the boys adapted well. They’re already willing to show what they can, and he had to make the last result out of their heads. And I think it’s obvious that we need goals,” he said.

“We created a lot of chances against Angola. We deserve to win this game. We didn’t play well against Niger in the last game. Yeah, I think we also deserve to win. Very unlucky. But there’s a speech in German, I think English is three times lucky.

“So, I think we have two good games with Angola, and also our last game with Sudan at home. And this is the third game now, and when we play the way we played the last game, we will be able to win,” he added.

Currently, Ghana sits third in their group with two points from two draws and one loss. A win against Kwesi Appiah’s Sudan is essential to keep their qualification hopes alive.

The highly anticipated match is scheduled to kick off at 13:00 GMT.

READ ALSO

• 2025 AFCONQ: Black Stars hold final training session ahead of Sudan clash [Photos]
• 2025 AFCONQ: Sudan v Ghana preview

The 45-year-old coach shared his optimism during a press conference ahead of Ghana’s second-leg match against Sudan on Tuesday.

The Black Stars have struggled in the qualifiers so far, earning just two points from their first three matches. They suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat to Angola in their opening game, followed by a 1-1 draw with Niger, and a goalless draw against Sudan.

Despite the disappointing results, Addo remains positive, highlighting the team’s strong performances against Angola and Sudan.

“I think it’s good Angola won against Niger, and now the situation is still in our hands. We need to win this match tomorrow, and once we are second, I think we all know and have seen that we can beat all of those teams we’ve played against. It’s still in our own hands, and that’s what we’re aiming for,” said the 45-year-old said.

The Black Stars will face Sudan at the Martyrs of February Stadium in Libya for their Matchday four fixture.

Ghana is aiming for their first win to boost their chances of qualifying for the tournament that will be staged in Morocco next year.

The match is scheduled to kick off at 13:00 GMT.

READ ALSO

• 2025 AFCONQ: Sudan v Ghana preview
• 2025 AFCONQ: Black Stars hold final training session ahead of Sudan clash [Photos]

After a goalless draw with Sudan in the first leg at the Accra Sports Stadium last week Thursday, Ghana is aiming for its first win of the qualifiers when the two teams meet again on Tuesday in Libya.

The Black Stars arrived in Libya on Sunday and held a training session today in anticipation of the crucial match against Sudan scheduled to be hosted at the Martyrs of February Stadium at 13:00 GMT.

Otto Addo and his side are sitting 3rd in Group F with just two points after three games.

A win on Tuesday is essential for the team to keep their hopes of qualifying for the tournament, set to be hosted in Morocco next year, alive.

Coach Otto Addo’s squad faces a tough challenge against a determined Sudan team, led by former Ghana coach Kwesi Appiah.

With their qualification campaign at stake, the Black Stars will need to deliver a strong performance to secure a much-needed victory.

The Falcons of Jediane are hoping to extend their advantage over the Black Stars and secure a strong position in Group F.

Currently, Sudan sits second in the group with four points after three games, two points ahead of Ghana, who occupy third place with two points.

Match Preview

In the first leg last Thursday, Sudan, managed by Kwesi Appiah, held Ghana to a hard-fought goalless draw at the Accra Sports Stadium, despite several goal attempts from the Black Stars. This vital away point helped Sudan avoid falling to third place after an earlier loss to Angola.

However, the Falcons of Jediane still face a challenge. To maintain their spot in the top two and strengthen their chances of securing one of the group’s AFCON spots, they need to avoid defeat on Tuesday.

Historically, Sudan has had a mixed record when hosting Ghana, winning two of their five meetings but losing three. The most recent encounter in Sudan, however, ended in a 1-0 victory for the home side in a 2020 AFCON qualifier.

Sudan’s recent home form in qualifiers has been strong, with an unbeaten run in the last three games they’ve hosted. This includes a draw against Togo and a win over Congo DR in World Cup qualifiers, as well as a 1-0 win over Niger in their last AFCON qualifier.

For Ghana, wasted opportunities in the first leg have left them in a tough spot. Despite having 20 goal attempts and seven shots on target, the Black Stars failed to break through Sudan’s defense. Now, they face the risk of missing out on AFCON for the first time since 2004 if they don’t secure a win on Tuesday.

Ghana, under the leadership of Otto Addo, will need to find a way to reignite their AFCON campaign. Addo, who was reappointed in March, is unbeaten on the road in his second stint as coach, with a 2-1 win over Mali and a 1-1 draw against Niger in the ongoing qualifiers.

Facing a familiar opponent in Kwesi Appiah, who was recently a coach for Ghana and a member of the GFA’s executive council, the Black Stars must find a new approach to break Sudan’s defenses, having failed to score in two of their three qualifiers so far.

Team Form

Sudan AFCON Qualifying Form: W L D

Sudan Overall Form: L W W W L D

Ghana AFCON Qualifying Form: L D D

Ghana Overall Form: D W W L D D

Team News

For Ghana, Inaki Williams could start after impressing with three shot attempts in the first leg despite only coming on as a substitute. Mohammed Kudus, who missed two key chances, will be eager to make amends in a more clinical performance behind the striker.

Sudan’s goalkeeper Mohamed Mustafa was a standout performer in the first leg, making seven saves. He will look to be a decisive factor once again, while forward Mohamed Abdelrahman hopes to open his goal tally for the qualifiers.

What the Coaches Say

After the goalless draw in Accra, both coaches are setting their sights on victory. Ghana’s Otto Addo expressed confidence ahead of the return leg, stating, “Sudan was lucky today, but next time in Libya, they won’t be as lucky. We will beat them.”

Sudan’s Kwesi Appiah is also optimistic, telling the Sudanese Football Association: “It was a tough game, but we fought hard for the draw. In the return leg, we will give everything and fight for a big win.”

Possible Lineups

Sudan: Mustafa, Agab, Koko, Karshoum, Yousif, Khidir, Al-Rasheed, Saeed, Eisa, Abdelrahman, Thierry

Ghana: Ati-Zigi, Seidu, Salisu, Djiku, Mensah, Owusu, Sulemana, Nuamah, Kudus, Semenyo, Inaki

Prediction

Sudan 0-0 Ghana

In the first leg of the doubleheader qualifiers, Sudan managed to hold the Black Stars to a 0-0 draw at the Accra Sports Stadium last Thursday.

The teams are set for the return match, which will take place at the Martyrs of February Stadium in Libya on Tuesday, October 15, with kick-off at 13:00 GMT.

Speaking ahead of the crucial encounter, Coach Appiah acknowledged Ghana’s strengths but expressed confidence in his team’s ability to secure a win.

“It is not going to be easy, but Insha Allah, we are going to fight and make sure we get a victory for Sudan,” said the former Black Stars coach.

Historically, Ghana’s record against Sudan has been balanced, with three wins and three losses in their last six matches on Sudanese soil.

The most recent encounter between the two sides ended in a narrow 1-0 defeat for Ghana, with Sudanese forward Mohamed Abdel Raman scoring a late winner.

Currently, the Black Stars are third in Group F with two points from three games.

Otto Addo and his men need a win against Kwesi Appiah’s Sudan to improve their chances of qualifying for the AFCON tournament, which will be held in Morocco.

READ ALSO

• 2025 AFCONQ: Black Stars are focused on beating Sudan – Henry Asante Twum
• 2025 AFCONQ: There is hope for Black Stars but … – Augustine Ahinful

The senior national team is currently in Libya preparing for the second leg of their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against the Falcons, scheduled for Tuesday at 13:00 GMT.

So far, Ghana has struggled in the qualifiers, failing to register a win after three matches.

The Black Stars began their campaign with a disappointing 1-0 loss to Angola, followed by a 1-1 draw against Niger.

The round of three games against Sudan ended in a goalless draw at the Accra Sports Stadium, leaving Otto Addo’s squad in third place in Group F with just two points.

Ahead of the return match at the Martyrs of February Stadium, Asante Twum stated that the team is determined to achieve their first victory in the qualifiers.

“We didn’t get the needed points against Sudan in Accra, but we know what is at stake for us because we know we have to win to ensure we qualify for the AFCON in Morocco,” he said on Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show.

“The players and the technical team are focused on getting the needed points. That is the mission of why we are in Libya. We have to put the first leg behind us,” he added.

The Black Stars are set to conduct their final training session later tonight at the Martyrs of February Stadium before the game.

A win against the Falcons is vital for Ghana to maintain their hopes of qualifying for the tournament next year in Morocco.

READ ALSO

• 2025 AFCONQ: There is hope for Black Stars but … – Augustine Ahinful
• Former champions Ghana in desperate fight for survival in AFCON qualifying