By: Kwame Bediako
Sudan’s Falcons soared under Kwasi Appiah’s guidance in Casablanca’s chilly 14-degree embrace, clinching a gritty 1-0 win over Equatorial Guinea that reignites their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations campaign.
After an opening loss, Appiah’s side displayed iron discipline in a tense Group E stalemate, absorbing pressure before striking gold in the 74th minute. Defender Saúl Coco’s botched clearance off a Sudanese cross looped into his own net, turning chaos into ecstasy for the bench and scattered supporters.
Goalkeeper Monged Abuzaid emerged as the evening’s hero, marshalling a resolute backline against Equatorial Guinea’s frantic late onslaught. Wave after wave crashed harmlessly as Sudan’s defenders stood tall, their unity forged in adversity preserving the precious lead.
Appiah’s halftime adjustments, tightening midfield and exploiting flanks, proved decisive, showcasing the Ghanaian coach’s deep understanding of African football’s unforgiving demands.
This triumph marks Sudan’s first AFCON finals victory since 2012, a milestone that catapults them level with Group E leaders and primes a blockbuster New Year’s Eve showdown with Burkina Faso.
Beyond points, it signals a tactical renaissance for Appiah, whose resilience echoes his storied career from Ghana’s Black Stars to this Sudanese revival.
For Equatorial Guinea, the own-goal heartbreak exposes defensive frailties, leaving them teetering as they chase survival. Sudan’s belief surges, with Appiah praising his squad’s “unbreakable spirit” post-match. As Group E hangs in the balance, this Casablanca cold-night classic underscores AFCON’s magic—where underdogs rise and dreams defy the odds.
