Sudan’s national football team coach, James Kwesi Appiah, has announced a 27-man provisional squad for the opening rounds of the AFCON 2025 qualifiers. The list includes a blend of experience and youthful talent as the Nile Crocodiles prepare to take on Niger and Angola in crucial matches that could determine their path to the tournament in Morocco.
The Sudan Football Association confirmed the roster ahead of two pivotal fixtures.
Sudan, seeking to return to the Africa Cup of Nations after a decade-long absence, will first face Niger at home on Wednesday, 4 September.
Just five days later, they will travel to Angola for another challenging encounter on Monday, 9 September.
Both matches are crucial as the team aims to secure a spot in the prestigious continental competition.
The goalkeeping duties will be shared by three selected keepers: Mohammed Al-Mustafa Azzam, Ali Abu Ashreen, and Kidaba.
These players have been entrusted with safeguarding Sudan’s goal and are expected to provide a strong last line of defense.
In defense, Mustafa Karashom, Mohammed Ahmed Ernaq, Musa Al Tayeb, Mazen Babnusa, Abdulrahman Koko, Bakhit Khamis, Awad Zayed, Hamad Tabanja, and Ramadan Eajab will form the backbone of the team’s rearguard.
This mix of defensive talent aims to provide stability at the back and limit opposition opportunities.
The midfield will be anchored by seasoned players like Abu Aqla Abdullah, Wali Al-Din Khader, and Hamad Hamed Al-Tash, along with a cohort of dynamic talents such as Ammar Tayfour, Mohammed Al Rashid, and Salah Adel.
These midfielders will be expected to control the game’s tempo, distribute the ball effectively, and support both defensive and attacking transitions.
Additionally, the creativity of Abdul Raouf Yaquob, Sharaf Al-Din Shiboub, and Al Samani Alsawy will be vital in orchestrating the team’s attacking efforts.
Sudan’s forward line boasts a combination of skill and precision, with Mohammed Abdulrahman, Saif El Din Malik, John Manu, Al-Jazuli Noah, Motjaba Faisal, and Yasser Muzamil all ready to lead the charge in the final third.
These attackers will be responsible for converting chances and driving the team towards victory in their quest for qualification.
With their sights firmly set on securing a place in AFCON 2025, Sudan will rely heavily on the performances of these selected players.
Under the guidance of coach Appiah, the team hopes to build momentum and put an end to their prolonged absence from Africa’s biggest football tournament.
The qualifiers represent a significant challenge for Sudan, but also an opportunity to return to the international stage.
The squad selected by Appiah reflects a commitment to combining experience with fresh energy, and the upcoming matches will be a true test of the team’s resilience and determination as they aim to make their mark in African football once again.
