“Playing in CHAN was my childhood dream” – Sudan’s 18-year-old Hussein
At just 18 years old, Musa Hussein is already living the dream of millions across Africa.
The teenage sensation announced himself on the continental stage by scoring in Sudan’s opening match of the TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024, becoming the youngest player in the tournament to find the net.
Born in October 2006, Hussein is not just making history — he’s making headlines.
In this exclusive interview with CAFOnline.com, the young forward shares his thoughts on achieving a lifelong ambition, his admiration for Ivorian star Wilfried Zaha, and his gratitude to Sudan head coach Kwesi Appiah, who he calls a “father figure.”
Humble, focused, and fiercely ambitious, Hussein opens up about the pride of wearing the Sudanese jersey, his aspirations for an individual award at CHAN 2024, and his ultimate goal — a move to a top European league.
Q&A: Musa Hussein – Sudan National Team Forward
CAFOnline.com: You made your debut at CHAN 2024 against Congo. How did it feel to finally play in this tournament?
Mousa Hussein: I’m extremely happy to be part of such a major competition. It’s the biggest moment of my football career so far. This participation is a huge source of pride for me and my entire family.
You scored in your debut match. How did it feel to find the net? What did your teammates, coach, and family say afterwards?
Scoring in my very first CHAN match was a great honour. I owe it all to my teammates for their support and encouragement on the pitch. Of course, I hoped the goal would lead us to victory, but that’s football.
After the match, I received congratulations from everyone — my coach, teammates, and family. It meant a lot to me.
At 18, you’re the youngest player wearing Sudan’s colours. You’ve featured in CHAN qualifiers, the final tournament, and even World Cup qualifiers. What does that experience mean to you?
I owe everything to the Sudanese national teams. They’ve shaped my football journey — from the U17s to the U20s and now the senior team. Every time I wear the Sudan shirt, I feel a deep sense of pride. My teammates and I dream of reaching the World Cup one day. It’s a tough mission, but certainly not impossible.
You’re nicknamed “Kanté.” Who gave you that nickname, and do you like it?
One of my friends from the city of Kassala gave me that nickname, and it spread quickly. I actually love it and carry it with pride.
What’s your message to Sudanese fans during CHAN 2024?
We promise to give our all to make them proud and to achieve results that match their ambitions.
What does playing in the TotalEnergies CHAN tournament mean to you personally?
It means everything. Since childhood, I dreamed of playing in a tournament like this and representing my country on such a big stage.
Are you targeting a personal award — perhaps top scorer or best young player of the tournament?
Absolutely. Winning an individual title while wearing the Sudan shirt would be a huge honour for me, and I’ll work very hard to achieve it.
Who is your role model among African players?
My role model is Wilfried Zaha from Cote d'Ivoire. I admire everything he’s achieved in his career.
What would you like to say to your coach, Kwesi Appiah, who gave you the opportunity to play for the national team?
Coach Appiah is like a father figure to me. I learn so much from him. I thank him for everything he’s done for the team, and I hope we can achieve results that match both his ambitions and the hopes of our people.
What are your aspirations for the future?
My dream is to play professionally in Europe’s top leagues. I’ll keep working hard every day to make that dream come true.
Final words?
I want to thank everyone who has supported me — from my family to my coaches, teammates, and the fans. I promise to keep working and improving to raise Sudan’s flag high.
