James Kwesi Appiah, head coach of Sudan’s national team, says he hope Ghana learns from failing to qualify for the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 in Morocco.
“When the draw placed Ghana in our group, I did several interviews where I said I hoped both Ghana and Sudan would qualify. It’s unfortunate Ghana couldn’t make it.
“As a Ghanaian, I’m not happy about that, but football has evolved, and every country needs to prepare well for competitions. I hope Ghana learns from this and comes back stronger in future tournaments,” Appiah told CafOnline.com.
Appiah, a Ghanaian football legend, has etched his name in African football history after Sudan edged out Ghana to qualify for the 2025 AFCON, and has now achieved the remarkable feat of sending Sudan back to the AFCON after many years ahead of Monday’s draw.
Against the backdrop of a civil war that forced Sudan to play all their qualifiers away from home, Appiah’s leadership and tactical brilliance have inspired a nation yearning for hope amid adversity.
Sudan’s path to qualification came at the expense of Appiah’s homeland, Ghana, adding a bittersweet layer to this historic achievement.
The former Black Stars captain, who also coached Ghana at the 2014 FIFA World Cup, now embarks on a new chapter as he prepares to lead Sudan into Africa’s most prestigious football tournament.
“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,” he said.
Speaking to how he was able to adapt his coaching style to fit the Sudanese players and football culture, Appiah said the players were motivated to play and give their all to Sudan.
“Back in 2014 and 2015, I coached a club in Sudan, so I already understood their culture and football style. At that time, I selected young players for the club, and about nine of them made it to the national team. Fortunately, I met five or six of them still in the squad when I took over as head coach.
“These players already understood my coaching philosophy, and they helped ensure the rest of the team bought into it. They were motivated not just to play for Sudan but to also give their all for me, which has made the journey smoother,” he said.
Join BusinessDay whatsapp Channel, to stay up to date
Open In Whatsapp
