Ghanaian football legend, James Kwesi Appiah has achieved a historic milestone, guiding Sudan’s national football team to qualify for the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 in Morocco.
This remarkable feat comes against the backdrop of a devastating civil war that has displaced millions and forced Sudan to play all their qualifying matches away from home.
Appiah, who previously captained Ghana and coached the Black Stars at the 2014 FIFA World Cup, has brought a glimmer of hope to a nation in turmoil. Under his leadership, Sudan’s qualification journey culminated in a bittersweet moment, as it came at the expense of his homeland, Ghana.
Speaking to CAFOnline.com, Appiah expressed pride in the Sudanese team’s achievement. “I’m very pleased that Sudanese people have found joy after so many years. It’s an honor to be part of this success story,” he said.
With the AFCON 2025 draw set to take place in Morocco, Appiah emphasized the importance of preparation over preference for opponents. “Once you’ve qualified, you must be ready to face any team. Fear has no place in competition; the key is preparation and confidence,” he noted.
Appiah’s tenure as Sudan’s head coach has been marked by numerous challenges. The civil war has not only disrupted domestic football but also deeply affected players, many of whom have lost family members. Despite this, Appiah motivated the team to focus on their shared goal of qualifying for AFCON and potentially the FIFA World Cup.
“I reminded the players that they were the only ones who could bring joy to their fellow Sudanese, many of whom are struggling without basic necessities. Their resilience and dedication have been inspiring,” he said.
With no domestic league for years, Appiah relied heavily on players from two clubs, Al Hilal and Al Merreikh, as well as a few playing abroad. Despite the limited talent pool, he adapted his coaching style to suit the players and instilled a sense of unity and purpose.
“Playing every match away from home was tough, but I told the players to treat every venue as our home. That mindset made all the difference,” Appiah explained.
The qualification has brought immense joy to Sudanese people worldwide, serving as a rare beacon of hope during difficult times. Appiah described the achievement as a unifying moment, urging the nation to continue supporting the team and striving for peace.
Looking ahead to the tournament, Appiah set bold expectations for the Sudanese team. “We’re not just going to participate; we’re going to fight for the trophy. With the right mentality and preparation, I believe we can achieve it,” he declared.
Appiah’s success with Sudan also highlights the potential of African coaches. “As Africans, we need to cherish our talents and trust in our own. I hope this inspires others to believe in African coaches and their ability to succeed,” he said.
As Sudan prepares for Africa’s most prestigious football tournament, Appiah’s leadership offers not just a roadmap for success on the pitch but also a powerful message of hope and resilience for a nation yearning for brighter days.
