Sudan’s head coach, Kwesi Appiah, has urged Ghana to reflect on its failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and use it as an opportunity to rebuild for future tournaments. Despite being a member of the Ghana Football Association’s (GFA) Executive Council, Appiah guided Sudan to a remarkable AFCON qualification amid the challenges of civil unrest in the country. The Falcons of Jediane secured second place in their group with eight points, including a 2-0 victory against Ghana in Libya after a goalless draw in Accra. This marked a major achievement for Sudan, while Ghana’s campaign ended in disappointment, failing to win a single match and missing the AFCON for the first time in 21 years.
Appiah expressed his regret that Ghana, a football powerhouse, could not advance in the qualifiers. Reflecting on the group’s outcome, he mentioned that he initially hoped both Ghana and Sudan would qualify. However, he highlighted the evolving nature of football, which demands better preparation and commitment to stay competitive. As a former Ghanaian captain and coach, Appiah admitted feeling saddened by the situation but stressed the importance of learning from the setback. “Every country must prepare thoroughly for competitions,” he said, encouraging Ghana to address its shortcomings and come back stronger. His leadership has been instrumental in Sudan’s success, as he instilled resilience in the team, turning them into a symbol of hope during trying times.
As Sudan awaits the AFCON draw in Rabat, where their group-stage opponents will be determined, Appiah’s achievement continues to shine as an example of determination and effective leadership. By overcoming significant challenges, including the pressures of civil unrest, he has demonstrated the value of preparation and teamwork in achieving success. His success with Sudan offers Ghana a blueprint for rebuilding its footballing legacy. By learning from their failure to qualify and addressing areas of weakness, Ghana can work toward reclaiming its place as a dominant force in African football. Appiah’s journey with Sudan stands as a testament to the potential for transformation when teams focus on resilience, strategy, and unity.
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