Arjun Menon
South Sudan Dominates Djibouti 4-0 in AFCON 2027 Qualifier Opener
South Sudan delivered a commanding performance to defeat Djibouti 4-0 in their TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations PAMOJA 2027 Preliminary Round first-leg clash in Juba on Thursday, 26 March 2026. The result gives the hosts a decisive advantage ahead of the return leg at the same venue.
Keer Majak emerged as the standout performer, scoring once and providing two assists as South Sudan controlled the tie from start to finish. His influence on the match shaped the outcome significantly, showcasing the attacking prowess that will be central to football qualification campaigns.
Early Breakthrough Sets the Tone
South Sudan established their intentions early. The breakthrough arrived in the 31st minute when Bangasi J. set up Kuol T. to open the scoring. The hosts pressed forward with pace and movement in attack, while Djibouti struggled to match their intensity. Despite sustained pressure, Djibouti kept the deficit to 1-0 at halftime.
Majak Takes Centre Stage After the Break
South Sudan accelerated their dominance after the restart. Bangasi J. doubled the lead in the 49th minute, finishing a move orchestrated by Majak. The forward then turned provider in the 66th minute, setting up Maker P. to make it 3-0 and effectively settle the contest. Majak completed his display by scoring in the 81st minute for a 4-0 final scoreline.
Djibouti’s Defensive Collapse
Djibouti found no foothold in the encounter. South Sudan dominated possession and created superior chances throughout. Their defensive organisation crumbled in the second half, leaving them unable to contain the attacking threat. The defeat leaves them with a steep climb in the return leg.
South Sudan’s Qualification Path
The match forms part of the opening round of qualifiers for the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations PAMOJA 2027, where the lowest-ranked teams compete for six places in the next stage. South Sudan’s emphatic victory positions them firmly in control. With both legs in Juba, home conditions will be critical as they seek to complete the job. For Djibouti, recovery is imperative, but South Sudan’s display suggests progression is well on course.