2024 CHAN: Kwesi Appiah is a like a father figure – Sudan midfielder Abdelrazig Taha Yagoub Omer

Sudan midfielder Abdelrazig Taha Yagoub Omer has heaped praises on Kwesi Appiah after guiding the side to the semifinals in the ongoing 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN).

The Falcons of Jediane secured a place in the last four after beating Algeria on penalty shootouts.

Speaking to CAFOnline, the 32-year-old expressed his gratitude to coach Kwesi Appiah, whom he describes as a father figure.

“Coach Appiah is more than a coach — he’s like a godfather to us. He always stands by us, motivates us, and genuinely cares for the players. He has brought respect, belief, and unity to this team.

“Personally, I’m very thankful to him for all he has given me and the group,” he added.

Amid Sudan’s ongoing turmoil caused by war, Yagoub Omer says the team draws inspiration from their countrymen’s struggles.

“The situation back home has made us even more determined,” he said.

“Our people are going through a lot, and football has become one of the few sources of joy.

“Every victory brings smiles to Sudanese faces, and that alone pushes us to give everything on the pitch.”

Sudan will now face Madagascar for a place in the final at the Benjamin Mkapa National Stadium in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, on Tuesday.

Kick-off is at 16:30GMT.