AFCON 2025: Kwesi Appiah admits respect for Senegal but determined for victory

Ahead of Sudan's clash with former champions Senegal in the Africa Cup of Nations Round of 16, coach Kwesi Appiah has expressed profound respect for his opponents while declaring his own team's unwavering belief and ambition.

Having masterminded Sudan's remarkable journey to the knockout stage, the Ghanaian manager has instilled a newfound confidence in a squad that entered the tournament as heavy underdogs.

This qualification was sealed with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Equatorial Guinea, marking Sudan's first win at the tournament in 13 years and demonstrating their tactical resilience.

"We have respect for Senegal they are a big footballing country in Africa, they are the former champions, but we are ready," Appiah stated, acknowledging the calibre of an opponent led by global star Sadio Mané. However, he quickly shifted the focus to Sudan's own lofty aspirations, adding, "Sudan deserves to go far in the AFCON, and our ultimate goal remains to chase for the AFCON title."

Appiah's comments underline a significant shift in mentality. Steering a team ranked 117th in the world, and whose preparation has been severely hampered by the ongoing civil war in their homeland, he has forged a unit defined by unity and determination.

For Sudan, this match in Tangier represents more than a knockout fixture; it is an opportunity to prove they can compete with the continent's elite and continue an inspiring underdog story that has already captivated football fans across Africa.