Sudan national team head coach, James Kwesi Appiah has clarified the reasons behind his delayed return to the team’s training camp, citing both financial challenges and a personal commitment.

The Ghanaian coach confirmed that delayed salary payments were a factor in his absence, but he also chose to remain in Ghana to attend the funeral of Yaw Frimpong (Nana Pooley), a dedicated Asante Kotoko supporter.

“Actually, I delayed because of Pooley’s funeral. There were also delays in some payments, but I’ve now met with their embassy, so I hope to leave tomorrow,” Appiah told Ghanasportspage.

Since leading Sudan to qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Appiah has been in Ghana. His return was originally planned earlier to oversee preparations for Sudan’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

His extended stay has slightly disrupted Sudan’s training plans in Saudi Arabia, where the team is fine-tuning their tactics ahead of crucial matches against Senegal and South Sudan.

With his financial matters now resolved, Appiah is set to return and continue Sudan’s positive momentum under his leadership.

Under the leadership of Kwesi Appiah, Sudan made a significant impact in the 2025 TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers, drawing 0-0 with Ghana in Accra and then defeating them 2-0 in Benghazi. This result played a key role in Ghana's unexpected failure to qualify for the Nations Cup for the first time in 20 years.

Sudan finally sealed their AFCON qualification with a crucial 0-0 draw against Angola in their final qualifier in Benghazi last November.

Sudan have now been drawn into Group E alongside Algeria, Burkina Faso, and Equatorial Guinea for the 2025 AFCON tournament scheduled for Morocco.