South Sudan is set to host Congo in their quest for a first victory in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers. With the action set to unfold at the Juba Stadium on Thursday afternoon, both teams enter this encounter with contrasting aspirations. While South Sudan’s hopes for qualification have already ended, Congo still has a shot at securing a place in the tournament. However, a win here is crucial for the visitors to keep their chances alive.
Match Details
- Fixture: South Sudan vs Congo
- Date: Thursday, 14 November 2024
- Broadcast: SABC Sport, SABC Plus, SuperSport
- Time: 15:00 CAT
Previous Head-to-Head
In their last encounter, Congo secured a narrow 1-0 victory over South Sudan, marking a bright start to their AFCON qualifying campaign. However, both teams have since faced struggles. This time, South Sudan will look to turn the tables and break their winless streak.
Recent Form
South Sudan
South Sudan has had a challenging journey in Group K, suffering four consecutive defeats, including a close 2-1 loss to Uganda in their last outing. Despite putting up a spirited performance and equalizing through Yohanna Juma, a late own goal by Alfred Jeku dashed their hopes. This series of setbacks has not only impacted their AFCON campaign but also placed them in a difficult position in the World Cup qualifiers, where they currently sit near the bottom of their group.
South Sudan’s recent form across all competitions reflects their struggles:
- AFCON Qualifiers Form: LLLL
- Overall Form: LLLLWD
While they may no longer be in contention for an AFCON spot, Thursday’s hosts have a chance to end their AFCON journey on a positive note before facing South Africa in their final game of 2024.
Congo
Congo, on the other hand, managed to secure a 1-1 draw against South Africa in their last match, thanks to Mons Bassouamina’s equalizer after Elias Mokwana’s opener. With this result, Congo avoided a third consecutive loss, but their qualification hopes are still on the line, as they require a victory and favorable results from other matches to progress. Their form in the AFCON qualifiers has been inconsistent, with only one win in four matches.
- AFCON Qualifiers Form: WLLD
- Overall Form: LLWLLD
Congo’s struggles are amplified by their recent poor performances in away games, with two consecutive road losses and a combined 7-0 scoreline. Despite these challenges, they are determined to break the trend and keep their AFCON dreams alive.
Players to Watch
South Sudan
- Peter Chol: The experienced midfielder is set to achieve his 40th international cap, a milestone that solidifies his place as the country’s most-capped player. His presence in midfield could provide stability and motivation for the team.
- Yohanna Juma: Known for his goal-scoring abilities, Juma is expected to lead the attack and will be eager to find the net again after his recent equalizer against Uganda.
Congo
- Mons Bassouamina: After scoring against South Africa, Bassouamina is a player to watch in the Congolese attack. His recent form adds a valuable dimension to Congo’s forward line as they look to break down the South Sudanese defense.
- Trey Vimalin: In goal, Vimalin is likely to fend off competition for the starting spot, giving Congo a solid last line of defense. His experience may prove crucial in a must-win match.
Current Injuries
South Sudan and Congo are expected to field close to their best line-ups, with both squads appearing relatively fit. Congo’s newest additions, such as Beni Namboka and Nelson Victor, may be in line for their debut, adding depth and energy to the visiting team.
Betting Odds
Certainly, here’s a more detailed view of the betting odds for South Sudan vs Congo:
| Betting Option | Odds |
|---|---|
| South Sudan Win | 4.00 |
| Draw | 3.10 |
| Congo Win | 1.85 |
| Over 2.5 Goals | 2.40 |
| Under 2.5 Goals | 1.60 |
| Both Teams to Score (Yes) | 2.10 |
| Both Teams to Score (No) | 1.70 |
| South Sudan to Score First | 3.50 |
| Congo to Score First | 1.70 |
| Exact Score 1-2 (Congo) | 6.50 |
With Congo favored to win, options like “Both Teams to Score” or a narrow victory for Congo (like a 2-1 scoreline) provide intriguing betting alternatives for those looking for value in this high-stakes encounter.
Betting Tips
Given Congo’s need for a win to remain in the qualification race, they are slight favorites. While South Sudan may play with resilience, Congo’s urgency and superior form may give them the edge.
South Sudan vs Congo Prediction Breakdown
South Sudan has shown resilience but has struggled to secure results in the AFCON qualifiers. Congo, with their sights still set on AFCON qualification, is likely to be the more motivated side. Considering recent form and Congo’s higher stakes, the visitors may secure a close victory. However, South Sudan could make it a challenging 90 minutes as they fight to restore pride on home turf.
Predicted Starting Line-ups
South Sudan
- Goalkeeper: Jenaro
- Defenders: Taban, Thomas, Pal
- Midfielders: Atendele, Gama, Chol, Okocha
- Forwards: Jawa, Leku, Juma
Congo
- Goalkeeper: Vimalin
- Defenders: Fauriel, Mbemba, Passi, Etou
- Midfielders: Makouta, Ossette
- Forwards: Ndockyt, Bassouamina, Mboungou, Ganvoula
Conclusion
South Sudan vs Congo promises to be an intriguing AFCON qualifier, with Congo’s hopes on the line and South Sudan aiming to end their journey on a high. While South Sudan is expected to fight hard to avoid another defeat, Congo’s hunger for a win might see them come out on top. Our prediction for the match: South Sudan 1-2 Congo.
Related article: Namibia vs Cameroon: Tense Encounter Ends in 0-0 Draw in AFCON 2025 Qualifier
