Sudan National Team Begins World Cup Preparations Amid Coaching Controversy

The Sudanese national team's officially kicked off preparations for their crucial FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers against Senegal & South Sudan. The squad held its 1st training session on Wednesday in gym at their training camp in Taif Saudi Arabia.

Squad Updates & Training Camp Details

Thirteen players participated in the opening session under fitness coach Ihab Abu Idris with more set to arrive based on travel arrangements. The initial group includes:

1. Amer Abdullah
2. Younis Jamal
3. Jamal Mohammed
4. Monjed Elneel
5. Captain Ramadan Agab
6. Amir Kamal
7. Wajdi Awad
8. Ahmed Abdel Monem Tobanja
9. Elsamani Elsawi
10. Mostafa Naji
11. Ahmed Peter
12. Moussa Kante
13. Youssef Ali

The falcons of jediane will remain in Taif for 12 day before heading to Jordan for friendly match. The team'll then travel to Libya on 17 Mar to prepare for their 18 Mar showdown against Senegal, followed by match against South Sudan on March 24.

Read also → Sudan vs Senegal: Appiah Demands Bonuses for His Players Ahead of the Big Match!

Coaching Controversy Over Unpaid Salaries

Despite the squad’s progress, major crisis looms over the camp. Head coach Kwesi Appiah's reportedly refused to join the training camp until his overdue salary's paid. Sudanese media outlets report that Appiah declined meeting with Sudan FA Vice President Osama Atta Elman who recently traveled to ghana in attempt to resolve the situation.

The Sudanese FA's scrambling to secure a portion of Appiah’s salary as financial struggles persist due to a halt in FIFA funding.

Sudan’s Position in the Qualifiers

Sudan currently tops Group B with 10 point from 4 matches, positioning themselves as strong contenders for World Cup qualification, the uncertainty surrounding Appiah’s involvement could impact their campaign.

Khaled Hegazy |

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Journaliste sportif spécialisé dans la couverture du football et la création de contenu numérique, alliant expérience éditoriale et expertise des médias sociaux.