Juba Showpiece Nears
Juba National Stadium prepares for Matchday 7 of Africa’s 2026 World Cup qualifiers, with South Sudan welcoming DR Congo on Friday, 5 September at 12:00 GMT. The fixture underlines the contrasting paths of Group B’s fifth-placed Bright Stars and table-topping Leopards.
Live Broadcast Information
Viewers across the continent will follow the action on RTS, SuperSport, La Chaîne L’Equipe and BeIn Sports France, ensuring both diasporas and neutral fans can gauge Group B’s developing narrative in real time.
South Sudan’s Immediate Stakes
With three points from six outings, South Sudan’s priority is momentum. A home upset would move the Bright Stars away from Group B’s basement and inject belief into a programme still searching for a maiden World Cup appearance.
DR Congo’s Quest for Control
The Leopards travel with 13 points and a chance to tighten their grip on first place. Coach Sébastien Desabre’s men understand that victory in Juba would keep qualification firmly within reach before the campaign’s final window.
A Single Prior Meeting
These nations have met only once. In March, DR Congo edged South Sudan 1–0 as Theo Bongonda struck the decisive goal, a result still fresh enough to influence tactical caution on both benches (foot-africa.com).
Group B Implications
Group B’s remaining programme means any slip could reshape standings. South Sudan need resilience, DR Congo consistency. Friday’s duel therefore carries weight beyond the ninety minutes, setting psychological tones for the final qualifying stretch.
What to Watch
While DR Congo start favourites, football in Juba often rewards endeavour. The Bright Stars aim to script an upset; the Leopards aim to confirm authority. The outcome will echo across African qualification conversations this weekend.