Congo Brazzaville will face South Sudan in their Group K opener of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying fixture at Stade Alphonse Massemba Debat on Thursday.

Both teams are keen to turn around recent poor form and make a strong start in Group K, which also includes South Africa and Uganda. Congo’s recent performances have been disappointing, highlighted by a 6-0 thrashing at the hands of Morocco in their World Cup qualifying campaign.

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, Valentino Yuel, Joseph Dhata.