FIFA Arab Cup: South Sudan exit early after loss to Syria

South Sudan fell 0-2 to Syria on Tuesday in qualifying for the 2025 FIFA Arab Cup in Doha, Qatar. The Bright Stars, as they are nicknamed, were the better side in the first half, but a poor outing after the resumption saw them crash out of the competition early.

It was an even affair during the first 45 minutes, with both teams finding it tough to create scoring chances. The first half’s best opportunity came in the 10th minute, with Keer Majak’s goal-bound effort being cleared off the line by Syrian defender Ahmad Faqa. Minutes later, Mahmoud Al Aswad forced a good save from South Sudan goalie Majak Mawith.

Following the resumption, Syria were better in quality and broke the deadlock in the 52nd minute, with Mohamad Al Hallaq scoring from inside the area after good work by Mahmoud Al Aswad. They doubled their lead six minutes later with a swift counterattack finished off calmly by Mahmoud Al Mawas.

South Sudan failed to gain control of the game after going two down, and they were poor in creating scoring chances, as they were limited only to efforts from distance.

Syria joins Group A, which also comprises hosts Qatar and last edition’s runners-up Tunisia and Palestine. Three African flagbearers in the competition have so far crashed out early, with Comoros, Djibouti, Sudan and Somalia playing on Wednesday to try to and book their ticket to the finals.