Kwesi Appiah believes his previous coaching experience in Sudan helped him build a strong connection with the national team, which played a key role in their qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Appiah, who previously captained Ghana and coached the Black Stars at the 2014 FIFA World Cup, led Sudan to secure a historic spot at AFCON despite the challenges posed by the ongoing civil war.
In an interview with CAF, Appiah reflected on his time coaching a Sudanese club in 2014 and 2015, saying, “I already understood their culture and football style.”
During his stint, he had selected young players, and nine of them later made it to the national team.
“Fortunately, I met five or six of them still in the squad when I took over as head coach,” he added.
“These players already understood my coaching philosophy, and they helped ensure the rest of the team bought into it.”
Sudan now prepares for the AFCON in Morocco, aiming to make an impact with Appiah’s leadership and guidance.