The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) secured a commanding 4-1 victory against South Sudan at Juba National Stadium on Friday during the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
C. Bakambu opened the scoring for DRC in the 17th minute, taking advantage of a lapse in South Sudan’s defense that allowed him to capitalize on a loose ball.
The Bright Stars came close to leveling the score shortly after, with Pap Chol’s shot finding the back of the net, only to be disallowed for offside.
Bakambu continued to shine, netting his second goal in the 35th minute, which further solidified DRC’s lead. Mbaku then added to the tally during stoppage time of the first half, leaving South Sudan trailing 3-0 at the break.
In the second half, Y. Wissa extended DRC’s advantage with a fourth goal in the 56th minute, seemingly putting the match out of reach for the home side.
Although the Bright Stars managed to find the net in the 68th minute, it served only as a consolation for their supporters.
This victory propels DRC to the top of Group B with 16 points, bolstering their prospects for progressing in the qualifiers. Meanwhile, South Sudan remains at the bottom of the group, earning just two points from five matches. With three matches still ahead, the Bright Stars are set to face Mauritania away on September 19, followed by contests against Togo and Senegal.