World Cup Qualifying: DR Congo outclass South Sudan

DR Congo were all business on Friday as the Leopards thrashed hosts South Sudan 4-1 in Juba for a dominant 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying victory in Group B.

Cédric Bakambu scored twice and Nathaniel Mbuku’s first goal for the Leopards confirmed a 3-0 halftime lead. Yoane Wissa added another goal in the second half as the DRC outclassed the Bright Stars in every way to maintain their status as Group B leaders.

Costly errors and poor marking defined the South Sudanese effort in a disappointing match for the many Bright Stars supporters who showed up to support their national team in the capital city. The hosts found a late consolation through Keer Mangar Majak but are now officially eliminated from contention to qualify for a first-ever World Cup.

Now with victory achieved in their opening match of the September FIFA window, DR Congo turn their attention to a highly anticipated clash with Senegal in Kinshasa on Tuesday. The Senegalese, now four points behind the DRC in the group, will host Sudan later on Friday in another important duel before traveling to Kinshasa for another must-win match.

Group B Table

1. DR Congo- 16 points (7 matches played)
2. Senegal- 12 points (6 matches)
3. Sudan- 12 points (6 matches)
4. Togo- 4 points (6 matches)
5. South Sudan- 3 points (7 matches)
6. Mauritania- 2 points (6 matches)