Amid the chaos of civil unrest, Sudan’s national football team achieved the improbable—qualifying for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Under the guidance of Kwesi Appiah, the Ghanaian football legend and former Black Stars coach, the team overcame immense challenges to deliver a moment of hope for their war-torn nation.

The journey was far from easy. With ongoing conflict forcing Sudan to play all their qualifiers away from home, the emotional and physical toll was immense. Appiah shared how the turmoil deeply affected his players, recounting moments in camp when team members received heartbreaking news of family losses.

“It was a really difficult situation. Sometimes, while we were in camp, players would lose family members, and we all had to console them,” Appiah said, reflecting on the human cost of the war.

In the face of such adversity, Appiah became a source of inspiration. He reminded the players of the power they held—not just to play football but to bring hope and joy to millions suffering back home.

“I told them to put their struggles behind them, fight on, and represent their country with pride,” he revealed.

With Appiah’s words as their anchor, Sudan’s players pushed through, delivering stellar performances that earned them a spot in the prestigious tournament. Now, as they prepare for AFCON in Morocco, the team is determined to make a statement on the pitch, carrying the hopes of a resilient nation.