Congo Brazzaville edged out South Sudan 1-0 to begin their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers on a superb note at the Stade Alphonse Massemba-Debat on Thursday.

Both teams went into the fixture looking 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.

Chandrel Massanga put Congo ahead in the 12th minute after finishing off a through ball from Mons Bassouamina. The goal proved the difference despite the Bright Stars threatening to stage a comeback led by former Gor Mahia and Kenya Police striker Tito Okello.

South Sudanese head coach Nicolas Dupuis was forced to make an early change after Joseph Dhata was injured to be replaced by Geriga Atendele. Things got worse for the Bright Stars as two of their players – Paul Jawa and Gadafi Wahab – were yellow carded for clumsy challenges.

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.