Sudan coach Appiah warns: ‘We respect AFCON opponents but don’t fear them’

Sudan national team coach Kwesi Appiah is not concerned with the opponents they will face at the 2025 TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco insisting that their determination will push them to the group stages and beyond.

The Falcons of Jediane sealed qualification for December’s finals, after edging out Ghana in their group despite being forced to play all their “home” matches abroad due to conflict at home.

They have been pooled in a tough Group E alongside Algeria, Burkina Faso and Equatorial Guinea — three sides with World Cup and AFCON pedigree. Despite their opponents, the Ghanaian coach is not worried, insisting they will be in Morocco to compete.

Sudan must prove what they can do at AFCON

“We respect them (our opponents), but we will not fear them. If you go into games thinking about names like Messi or Ronaldo, you lose the battle mentally before it begins,” Appiah told CAFOnline.com.

“My message to the players is simple: believe in yourselves and play to prove what Sudan can do. We are here to compete, not just to participate.”

Asked what they want to achieve in Morocco, he replied: “Step by step. First, qualify from the group. After that, the aim will be to eliminate whoever we face in the knockouts. Once you get there, anything is possible.”

On eliminating Ghana to qualify, he explained: “It was very special, especially given the circumstances. Many people expected Ghana to qualify, but football has changed — no one can be taken for granted anymore.

Sudan to use Arab Cup for AFCON preparations

“Of course, as a Ghanaian, I would have liked both teams to qualify, but my job is with Sudan. The players showed great commitment and deserved this success.”

The 64-year-old concluded: “We are monitoring a few players abroad and plan to use the Arab Cup in November as part of our build-up. That competition will give us match practice before heading to Morocco. We may also arrange one or two friendlies before then. The focus is to get the group sharp and united.”

Sudan will kick off their campaign against Algeria at Stade Prince Moulay EL Hassan on December 24.