Ghana coach Kwesi Appiah has warned that Sudanese football is gradually catching up with Ghana football after so many years of hard work and development.

The Black Stars trainer was reacting to the Confederations Cup draw which sees Kotoko drawn in Group C with Sudanese club Al Hilal.

According to Kwesi Appiah, who spent two years coaching in the Sudanese topflight, the Sudanese football authority have put in a lot of hard work to bridge the gap between them and the African football elites.

“Ghanaian clubs have psychological urge over Sudanese clubs.

“They know they’re playing to catch up with Ghana football but they’re are taking huge steps to bridge the gap.

“Football has developed technically and tactically there,” he told Sikka FM Sports in Kumasi.

Kwesi Appiah also stated that, the first 20 minutes of the game against Al Hilal will be crucial for their survival in Khartoum.

“Al Hilal will subject Asante Kotoko SC to incessant pressure in the first 20 minutes in Sudan.

“Kotoko’s reaction to this will be crucial. If they manage to score first after soaking the pressure, Al Hilal fans will turn against their club,” he added.

Asante Kotoko will face Al Hilal on Sunday, February 3rd 2019.