Sudan head coach, Kwasi Appiah, has expressed his belief that football can serve as a unifying force to help bring peace to the nation.
His ambitious goal of leading Sudan to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) has now become a reality, a feat he hopes will contribute to easing the ongoing unrest in the country.
Appiah, who signed a three-year contract with the Sudanese Football Association (SFA) in early 2024, has defied the odds to secure Sudan’s spot in the tournament set to take place in Morocco in December 2025.
In an interview with BBC Africa, the former Ghana coach shared his aspirations and motivations for taking on the challenge.
“Qualifying for the Afcon was one of the targets I set for myself before I signed the contract,” he said.
“Another reason I signed was for the people in Sudan, because of the war back home. The players have shown a lot of dedication.”
Despite the humanitarian crisis and the personal struggles faced by his players, Appiah rallied his team to achieve the seemingly impossible.
He emphasized the role football can play in inspiring change and fostering unity.
“This is something the guys can do to help change the war – or stop the war – in Sudan, by trying to qualify for the AFCON or World Cup,” he explained.
Appiah’s leadership and vision have not only reignited Sudan’s football dreams but have also offered a glimmer of hope to a nation yearning for peace.
With Sudan now headed to AFCON 2025, the journey symbolizes the power of resilience and the unifying spirit of sports.