Sudan’s national football coach, Kwasi Appiah, has expressed pride in his team’s qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), describing it as a moment of unity and joy for a country torn by conflict.

The Falcons of Jediane secured their place in the tournament by finishing second in Group F with eight points, despite the ongoing unrest that forced them to play their home games on neutral grounds.

Speaking to BBC Africa, Appiah shared how the team’s achievement briefly brought peace to Sudan.

“After the qualification, we visited the Sudanese embassy, and the ambassador said, ‘Everybody had their guns down, and they were all jubilating on the streets,’” Appiah recounted.

He emphasized the transformative power of football, even in the most challenging circumstances.

“Football is one of the keys that can unlock such wars,” Appiah noted.

The qualification journey was not without its hardships.

Many players faced personal losses and emotional struggles due to the ongoing turmoil.

However, Appiah encouraged them to use these challenges as motivation.

“Look at your relatives back home, what they’re going through, and let’s put some smiles on their faces,” he urged his team.

The coach’s message of hope and determination resonated deeply, driving the team to overcome obstacles and deliver a moment of pride for their nation.

Sudan’s qualification for the 2025 AFCON stands as a symbol of resilience and the unifying power of sports, offering a glimmer of hope to a nation yearning for peace