As the Black Stars prepare for their crucial 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying matches against Sudan, defender Alidu Seidu is keenly aware of the stakes involved.
With only one point garnered from their opening two matches—against Angola and Niger—the pressure is on the team to deliver a convincing performance and revive their qualification hopes.
Seidu, who netted his first international goal during the recent 1-1 draw against Niger, reflected on the team’s performance and emphasized the lessons learned from that match. “Now there’s Sudan coming, and playing 1-1 against Niger will serve as a lesson for us. We are going to give everything to beat Sudan home and away,” he stated in an interview with Flashscore.
Acknowledging that the Black Stars didn’t start well against Niger, Seidu admitted that they lost too many balls in crucial areas, leading to a frustrating performance. "When I scored, I wasn’t too happy because I knew we could do better. Playing in Africa means that scoring one is never enough," he explained. His mindset, even after scoring, was focused on improvement; "If it had been the second goal I had scored, I would have celebrated more; but it was 1-0, and I was already thinking about us getting the second."
The upcoming matches against Sudan are pivotal for Ghana’s chances in the qualifying campaign. The Black Stars currently sit in a precarious position and must secure maximum points to keep their hopes alive. Seidu is mindful of the heightened emotions surrounding the games. “Tempers will be high for the Sudan game, but no pressure,” he assured. His approach reflects a determination to channel that intensity into a strong performance on the pitch.
“I will try to give everything and enjoy football so people are happy,” he added, recognizing the expectations that fans have for the team. With the backing of their supporters and a renewed focus on their objectives, Seidu and the Black Stars are poised to confront Sudan with resolve.
The first match against Sudan is set to take place at the Accra Sports Stadium on Thursday, October 10, followed by the return leg in Libya on October 15.
