I hope Ghana learns from AFCON failure and bounces back strongly – Kwesi Appiah

Sudan’s head coach, Kwesi Appiah, has expressed hope that Ghana will learn from its failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and return stronger in future tournaments.

Appiah, who led Sudan to a historic qualification, reflected on the bittersweet experience of eliminating his homeland during the qualifiers.

Under Appiah’s leadership, Sudan defied immense odds, including playing all their matches away due to ongoing civil conflict.

Despite these challenges, the team secured a place at the tournament, making it a significant achievement for the war-torn nation.

Meanwhile, Ghana failed to qualify for the AFCON for the first time in 21 years without winning a single qualifying game.

“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,” Appiah told CAF.

“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, a former captain and coach of Ghana, has inspired resilience in Sudan’s squad, turning them into a symbol of hope.

The 2025 AFCON group stage draw is set for Monday, January 27, 2025, as Sudan looks ahead to their first tournament in decades.