Former Ghana coach Kwesi Appiah has disclosed that he initially turned down an offer from Sudanese football authorities to help them build a national team.
Appiah, who was appointed head coach of Sudan’s national team, the Falcons of Jediane, on a three-year deal earlier this year, revealed that he sought a more specific challenge before committing to the role.
He explained that, given the ongoing civil unrest in Sudan and the suspension of their domestic league, he wasn’t comfortable with a contract solely focused on team-building.
“They told me to come and build a team for them. I told them if it is just about building a team, I am not ready to do it,” he said in an exclusive interview on Asempa FM.
“I told them if they had a target of qualifying for the Africa Cup of Nations or World Cup or even the AFCON. That is a target I will agree to, not just build a team.
“I told them I can’t build a team, but they have good players, we can set a target and work towards achieving it. They have good players. It’s just about psyching them.” he added.
Under Appiah’s guidance, Sudan has been performing well, leading their 2026 World Cup qualifying group with 10 points.
They are also currently second in their 2025 AFCON qualifying group with four points.
Sudan is set to face the Black Stars of Ghana in a crucial AFCON qualifier on Tuesday, October 15, at the Martyrs of February Stadium in the Matchday four games.
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