RABAT – Sudan’s national team coach, Kwesi Appiah, has voiced concerns over injury setbacks within his squad ahead of their crucial Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Algeria. The match, slated for Wednesday at the ‘Moulay Hassan’ stadium in Rabat, Morocco, marks the opening fixture for Group D in the 2025 edition of the tournament.
In an exclusive statement, Appiah acknowledged the formidable challenge posed by the Algerian team, recognizing them as a continental powerhouse with a wealth of talented players. However, he expressed confidence in his own team’s ability to perform strongly and compete for maximum points.
Injury Woes Plague ‘Falcons of Jediane’
Appiah highlighted the significant impact of injuries on his squad’s preparation. Several players are currently sidelined, while others are still regaining fitness after recent injuries. “It is crucial that we focus on the fittest players available and develop them to ensure they can fulfill their roles effectively during the match,” Appiah stated.
Addressing his tactical approach, Appiah emphasized the unique nature of the upcoming clash. “We are facing Algeria, a strong and experienced team, significantly different from the one we encountered in the African Nations Championship or the recent Arab Cup. Each match has its own circumstances, and we cannot rely on past results. The key lies in thorough preparation, and we must deliver our best regardless of previous encounters,” he explained.
Arab Cup Experience a Boost
Appiah lauded the valuable experience gained from participating in the recent Arab Cup in Qatar. “We benefited immensely from the tournament. The organization was impeccable, from accommodation and nutrition to transportation. We faced strong opposition from three major teams, and this experience will greatly aid us in the Africa Cup of Nations,” he said.
Focus on Group Stage First
Appiah stressed the importance of managing expectations and maintaining focus. He emphasized that the immediate priority is the match against Algeria, followed by the second group game against Equatorial Guinea. “Our current ambition is to progress beyond the group stage. We cannot consider advancing further or achieving significant milestones in the tournament unless we secure qualification from the initial phase,” Appiah concluded.
