Sudanese winger Abobaker Mamoun Eisa has lauded the impact of Sudan National Men’s Football Team head coach James Kwasi Appiah, following the team’s recent success in the 2025 AFCON qualifiers.
In an interview with the BBC, Eisa expressed his admiration for the Ghanaian coach, who guided Sudan to a remarkable 2-0 victory over Ghana and a subsequent goalless draw in a doubleheader. These results have positioned Sudan second in Group F with eight points, putting them just one point away from securing a spot in next year’s AFCON in Morocco.
Appiah, a former player who won the 1982 AFCON with Ghana, has an impressive coaching resume that includes leading Ghana to two AFCON tournaments and the 2014 FIFA World Cup, along with a semifinal berth. Eisa highlighted the significant transformation in the team’s mentality since Appiah’s arrival.
“He brings a lot of experience and he’s changed our mentality into thinking we could beat anyone. I think that’s the biggest difference that you’re seeing here with the Sudanese team. Everyone knows that he’s a legend in his country and what he’s done for his country,” Eisa remarked.
The winger also noted Appiah’s belief in the team’s potential for greatness, stating, “He’s told us he believes that we could do something big together. We’re going step by step but it is coming to fruition now.”
Since competing in the 2012 edition, Sudan has participated in just one AFCON tournament (2021), where they exited at the group stage. With their recent performance, the Sudanese team aims to make a stronger showing in the upcoming tournament.
