Ghana Black Stars coach Kwasi Appiah expects Nigeria and Senegal to be the torch bearers of the African contingent at the 2018 World Cup in Russian claiming the two can make Africa proud.

African countries have struggled to go beyond the quarter-final stage of the World Cup with Cameroon, Senegal and Ghana, all falling out at that stage.

But following the groupings, the Ghana trainer who was at the GTV and Kwese TV launch of the 2018 World Cup told Ghanasoccernet.com that the two West African countries at the tournament will lead the way to go beyond the quarter-final stage.

Though sceptical about an African country winning the World Cup, Kwasi Appiah was optimistic Senegal and Nigeria will travel beyond quarterfinals.

"Most of the African countries at the World Cup have got very young squads. And I believe they can surprise many at the tournament," Kwasi Appiah told Ghanasoccernet.com

"Nigeria and Senegal are doing well with young players who want to achieve something.

"They only need the right mentality for the tournament and they can cause a surprise," he added.

Nigeria will start their campaign in Group D with Argentina, Croatia and Iceland while Senegal starts their journey in Group H with Poland, Columbia and Japan.