With Black Stars set to face Sudan, coached by former coach Kwesi Appiah, in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers, the former Ghana international is hoping both sides qualify.
The draw, held on Thursday in Johannesburg, South Africa, placed Ghana and Sudan in Group F alongside Angola and Niger.
Appiah, who previously led Ghana to the AFCON in 2019, now applies his tactical acumen to Sudan, where he aims to make a significant impact.
James Kwesi Appiah guided Ghana through the 2014 World Cup as head coach and managed the team in the 2019 AFCON
He’ll face the Black Stars as Sudan head coach in the 2025 AFCON qualifiers #3SportsGH pic.twitter.com/vTX9gEjUY9
— #3Sports (@3SportsGh) July 4, 2024
Former Black Stars coach v Current Black Stars coach 🍿 #3SportsGH pic.twitter.com/JU49mgu5ta
— #3Sports (@3SportsGh) July 4, 2024
“I’ve always said there is [are] no minnows in football now,” he remarked in an exclusive interview with 3Sports. “It is really important that any team you meet, you prepare very well and make sure you have the right team to try and win the day.”
The Black Stars will face former coach Kwesi Appiah and the Sudan national team in the 2025 AFCON qualifiers 👀#3SportsGH pic.twitter.com/m27I1KlghD
— #3Sports (@3SportsGh) July 4, 2024
“Personally, I also think and hope Ghana and Sudan qualify in that group. For now, I think that is what I can say and I wish both teams the best,” he added.
Under his guidance, Sudan currently leads Group B in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, ahead of formidable opponents like Senegal and DR Congo.
Appiah’s Sudanese side are looking to replicate their impressive World Cup qualifying form as they seek their 10th AFCON appearance. Despite their rich history, Sudan have faced challenges in recent AFCON editions, last appearing in 2021 and exiting in the Group Stage.
Meanwhile, Ghana, aiming for their fifth AFCON title, continue their quest to reclaim continental glory. The Black Stars’ last AFCON triumph dates back to 1982, making their campaign under coach Otto Addo crucial for national pride and footballing success.
Here are the groups in full for the 2025 AFCON qualifiers#3SportsGH pic.twitter.com/UXSXSj1yRd
— #3Sports (@3SportsGh) July 4, 2024
