Angola coach, Pedro Goncalves has cautioned that Sudan must be respected ahead of the 2025 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying series.
The Sudanese have been housed in Group F with Ghana and Niger.
Despite settling on his side and Black Stars to secure qualification for the AFCON tournament, Goncalves cautioned that Sudan must be respected due to their exploits in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
“The favourite is Ghana. They are the third best African team at the AFCON so they are the favourites. But we also believe that we have the chance to achieve or book a ticket for the AFCON," he told Ghanasportspage.
“Ghana and Angola have the chance to qualify but we must respect Sudan and also Niger. Sudan are currently leading their World Cup qualifiers group ahead of Senegal so it’s not easy. They are also one-time champions of Africa so we have to respect them.
“Niger also have a good side so I believe that all the national teams have the chance. It will be a balanced group and I believe Angola will qualify but Ghana are the favourites to top the group,” he added.
Sudan under former Ghana coach, Kwesi Appiah has had a great start with Sudan in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, topping group B with 10 points from four matches.
In the opening games of the qualifiers, Angola will be hosted by Ghana at the Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi on September 2 while Niger clash with Sudan.