Sudan coach Kwesi Appiah cut a disappointed but proud figure after his team’s 3-1 defeat to Senegal in the AFCON 2025 last-16, a result that ended their brave run in Morocco.
His side had stunned the defending champions early on in Tangier, only to be overpowered by Pape Gueye’s brace and a late Ibrahima Mbaye strike.
“Of course I am disappointed with the result of the game but proud of the effort of my players throughout this competition,” Appiah said, reflecting the mixed emotions of a night where Sudan showed both quality and vulnerability.
Aamir Abdallah’s brilliant sixth-minute curler gave Sudan a shock lead, and they pushed again after the break, forcing Edouard Mendy into a big save from Sheddy Barglan before Senegal finally took full control.
“We played against a very experienced Senegal team but we showed our quality,” Appiah added, insisting his players had nothing to be ashamed of.
“Despite the result tonight I am sure the Sudanese people know that we came to this competition and proudly represented them.” His words captured the sense that, even in defeat, Sudan had earned new respect on the continental stage.
