Early strike secures Congo Brazzaville victory over South Sudan in AFCON qualifier
Congo Brazzaville kicked off their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over South Sudan at the Stade Alphonse Massemba-Débat on Thursday evening. A first-half goal by Chandrel Massanga was enough to secure all three points for the Red Devils as they sought to shake off recent poor form and start Group K on a high note.
Both teams entered the contest eager for a fresh start.
Congo, still reeling from a humiliating 6-0 defeat to Morocco in their World Cup qualifying campaign, looked determined to make amends.
South Sudan, meanwhile, were equally desperate to turn the tide after a series of underwhelming performances.
The breakthrough came early for Congo, much to the delight of the home fans.
In the 12th minute, Massanga found the back of the net with a composed finish following an incisive through ball from Mons Bassouamina.
The early goal put Congo in the driving seat and set the tone for a match in which they dominated possession and created more chances.
Despite Congo’s early advantage, South Sudan remained resilient.
The Bright Stars, coached by Nicolas Dupuis, threatened to claw their way back into the game, with former Gor Mahia striker Tito Okello leading their attack.
However, their efforts were hampered by a series of unfortunate events.
An injury to Joseph Dhata forced Dupuis to make an early substitution, bringing on Geriga Atendele in the first half.
To add to their woes, both Paul Jawa and Gadafi Wahab received yellow cards for reckless challenges, further destabilizing the South Sudanese defense.
Congo, on the other hand, remained disciplined and compact, particularly in the second half, as they sought to protect their narrow lead.
Head coach Paul Put’s side managed to contain South Sudan’s attacking threats and kept goalkeeper Pavelh Ndzila relatively untroubled for much of the match.
Though South Sudan pushed forward in search of an equalizer, they struggled to break down Congo’s organized defense.
Congo’s backline, marshaled by Ryan Bidounga and Morgan Poaty, held firm, ensuring that the Bright Stars’ chances were limited to speculative efforts from outside the penalty area.
The final whistle confirmed Congo Brazzaville’s victory, a result that offers the Red Devils a crucial confidence boost as they navigate a tricky Group K, which also features South Africa and Uganda.
For South Sudan, the loss leaves them with plenty to ponder as they prepare for their next qualifier.
Congo’s solid performance and early goal proved the decisive factors in the match, providing them with a platform to build upon as they look to secure qualification for the 2025 AFCON.
South Sudan, meanwhile, will need to regroup quickly and address their shortcomings ahead of their upcoming fixtures.
Congo Brazzaville (1) 1
Massanga 12’
South Sudan (0) 0
Congo Brazzaville Starting XI: Pavelh Ndzila, Morgan Poaty, Ryan Bidounga, Yhoan Andzouana, Chandrel Massanga, Jose Dembi, Vieljeux Prestige Mboungou, Merveil Ndockyt, Mons Bassouamina, Silvere Ganvoula
South Sudan Starting XI: Majak Mawith, Samuel Malis, Peter Maker Manyang, Athir Abdo Gaber, Paul Jawa, Chol Daniel, Gadafi Wahab, Emmanuel Loki, Valentino Yuel, Joseph Dhata
