Football fans across Africa are in for an exciting Friday as Senegal faces South Sudan in one of the decisive clashes of the 2026 FIFA World Cup African Qualifiers. The match kicks off at 4:00 PM in Juba, marking the penultimate round of Group B fixtures.
Senegal Leading the Race
Senegal, the reigning African champions, currently tops Group B with 18 points, holding a two-point lead over the Democratic Republic of the Congo, who sit in second place. With just two rounds remaining, the Lions of Teranga are one win away from confirming their qualification for the World Cup, set to be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
A victory today against South Sudan would put them on the verge of qualification. In fact, Senegal could secure their place tonight if they win and DR Congo fails to beat Togo in the other group fixture.
South Sudan’s Pride on the Line
For South Sudan, this match is about more than points—it’s about national pride. Their chances of qualifying are mathematically slim, but the Bright Stars are eager to prove themselves against one of Africa’s strongest sides. A positive result could go a long way in building confidence and experience for future tournaments.
Key Players to Watch
Senegal’s lineup boasts global stars like Sadio Mané, Kalidou Koulibaly, and Edouard Mendy. Their experience and leadership will be crucial in managing the pressure of away fixtures.
South Sudan, meanwhile, will rely on the energy of Tito Okello and Peter Maker, two players known for their determination and teamwork.
The Stakes
Senegal needs just two more wins — against South Sudan and Mauritania — to seal a direct ticket to the 2026 World Cup. Head coach Aliou Cissé has urged his team to stay focused and avoid complacency in these final rounds.
Where to Watch
Fans can watch the match live on several channels, including:
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beIN Sports HD 1
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Sport TV1 Portugal
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Diema Sport 2 HD
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SuperSport Maximo 1
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Digi Sport 2 HD Romania
Prediction
Given Senegal’s current form and depth of talent, they are favorites to win. However, South Sudan’s home crowd in Juba could make it a tougher game than expected. A 2-0 victory for Senegal seems a fair prediction.
Conclusion
This match is more than a qualifier — it’s a story of ambition and resilience. For Senegal, it’s about completing their mission; for South Sudan, it’s about proving they belong on the African stage. Either way, fans are set for a passionate contest full of pride and purpose.