Sudan, coached by Ghanaian tactician James Kwesi Appiah, have secured their place in the Round of 16 at the Africa Cup of Nations 2025, marking a historic milestone for the Falcons of Jediane.

Qualification Secured


  • Sudan sealed progression as one of the best third-placed teams, thanks to Morocco’s victory over Zambia, which confirmed their spot even before the final round of group matches.

  • Their decisive 1–0 win against Equatorial Guinea was pivotal, ending a 13-year wait for an AFCON knockout berth.

  • The triumph was only Sudan’s second-ever AFCON victory since 1970, and their first since 2012, when they reached the quarterfinals before losing to eventual champions Zambia.

Appiah’s Impact


  • Kwesi Appiah has instilled resilience and belief, transforming Sudan from group underdogs into contenders.

  • His leadership has brought unity and joy to a nation grappling with political unrest, using football as a powerful catalyst for hope.

  • This achievement adds another chapter to Appiah’s storied coaching career, already marked by guiding Ghana at the 2014 FIFA World Cup.

Group Context


  • Sudan sit third in their group but are assured of progression.

  • They face Burkina Faso in their final group fixture at the Mohammed V Stadium on Wednesday, with pressure eased and confidence boosted.

  • Sudan now join Morocco, Egypt, Nigeria, Senegal, and Ivory Coast in the knockout stage, standing tall among Africa’s elite.

Sudan’s qualification under Kwesi Appiah is more than a footballing achievement—it’s a story of resilience, history, and national pride, as the Falcons of Jediane return to the AFCON knockout rounds after 13 years.