James Kwesi Appiah, the manager of Sudan’s national football team, navigates the emotional toll of civil war while leading the Jediane Falcons to success on the field. Amidst loss and turmoil, the team remains unbeaten in World Cup qualifying and aims to inspire hope for their nation. Appiah emphasizes the importance of self-belief as they prepare to face formidable opponents, showcasing the resilience of Sudanese football and its players.
James Kwesi Appiah, manager of the Sudanese national football team, provides a poignant glimpse into the challenges faced by players amidst the ongoing civil war in Sudan. Each day for the athletes is marked by the hope of not receiving devastating news about lost relatives, which sadly has occurred frequently. Appiah notes, “Really, those messages happen almost every time we have been together in the camp.” This underscores the emotional strain on the team while they strive for success in their sport.
Despite the severe impacts of the conflict, Appiah believes in using football as a means of providing brief moments of peace and hope. The Sudanese national team, known as the Jediane Falcons, is currently on a remarkable unbeaten streak in World Cup qualifying. They are set to face Senegal, a formidable opponent, with aspirations of solidifying their position in a highly competitive group.
Sudan’s path to success has not been without challenges, as their matches are held outside their homeland due to the ongoing war. Yet, they have managed to secure important victories, such as their wins against fellow contenders like DR Congo and Ghana, who they eliminated from Afcon qualification. For Appiah, achieving footballing milestones allows him to serve the pride of Sudan, as he stated, “The thing we can do is make the people of Sudan happy.”
The continuous turmoil has turned Appiah and his players into nomads, as the domestic league is suspended until further notice. To remain active, players have been competing in Mauritania and have established training bases in Saudi Arabia, where they can access high-class facilities. This arrangement has provided the team with opportunities to maintain momentum and cohesion.
James Kwesi Appiah’s wealth of experience in football only enriches his current role with Sudan. After successfully leading Ghana to the World Cup in 2014, he now seeks to inspire the next generation of Sudanese players amid their struggles. He emphasizes the importance of self-belief, urging them not to underestimate their potential. He remarked, “Don’t belittle yourselves. You’re strong and athletic. You’re high-quality players. See yourself as the best.”
In an effort to strengthen the team, Appiah has incorporated talent from the Sudanese diaspora, inviting players from various regions globally. By establishing a strong bond within the squad, the players find solace in representing a country that has faced immense hardship. Training in Saudi Arabia has facilitated essential preparations, allowing them to connect and create a support system.
Ultimately, Appiah and his team represent a beacon of hope for Sudanese people. Through their sporting achievements, they aim to bring a smile to faces affected by the conflict. As Appiah stated, “What we can do is put a smile on their faces,” reflecting the profound impact that sports can have even amidst the most trying circumstances.
In conclusion, James Kwesi Appiah’s leadership of the Sudanese national football team highlights not only the challenges posed by the ongoing civil war but also the resilience and determination of the players. While they have faced unimaginable hardships, their successes on the field have provided moments of joy and hope to a people in distress. With Appiah’s vision and dedication, the team continues to strive for greatness in the world of football, bringing attention and optimism to their homeland.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
