Head Coach of Ghana’s Black Stars Kwesi Appiah has tipped West African rivals Nigeria and Senegal to succeed at the FIFA World Cup in Russia. 

Arguably, Nigeria are in the toughest group in Russia for they have to contend with the likes of Argentina, Croatia and Iceland for a spot in the knockouts.

While Senegal will be up against Colombia, Japan and Poland, but Appiah believes these two countries will make the strongest claim for Africa in this year’s Mundial.

"Most of the African countries at the World Cup have got very young squads. And I believe they can surprise many at the tournament," he said. "Nigeria and Senegal are doing well with young players who want to achieve something," he added.

"They only need the right mentality for the tournament and they can cause a surprise.”

Ghana, following three successive appearances failed to make it to the global showpiece after Egypt beat the Black Stars to the only ticket in group E.