South Sudan’s Bright Stars won 3-2 against Rwanda’s Amavubi in the first leg of the 2024 Africa Nations Championship (CHAN) qualifiers. The match was held in Juba, South Sudan, on Sunday, December 22, 2024.
The home team came out strong from the start. In the 13th minute, a long ball into the Rwandan box resulted in an own goal. Nsabimana Aimable tried to head it back to his goalkeeper, but the ball went over his head and into the net, giving South Sudan a 1-0 lead.
South Sudan didn’t stop there. In the 20th minute, they earned a corner. The Rwandan defense failed to clear it, and Malian Mandela fired a powerful shot from outside the box, making it 2-0.
For the next 30 minutes, both teams focused on midfield play. Rwanda made several attempts but couldn’t get past South Sudan’s defense. The first half ended with South Sudan leading 2-0.
Rwanda came back strong in the second half. Just three minutes after the break, Mugisha Gilbert set up Muhire Kevin, who finished calmly to score Rwanda’s first goal. The score was now 2-1.
South Sudan responded quickly. In the 53rd minute, Benjamin Laku crossed the ball into the box. Ebon Malish Wajo rose to head it into the net, putting South Sudan up 3-1.
The game became more intense as Rwanda pressed for a goal. In the 69th minute, Kanamugire Roger passed to Mugisha Didier, who ran forward and scored to make it 3-2.
Rwanda kept pushing, but they missed several chances, including shots from Muhire, Mugisha, and Niyomugabo Claude. South Sudan held on to win 3-2.
The return leg is set for Sunday, December 28, 2024, at Amahoro Stadium in Kigali. With both teams hungry for the win, the second match promises to be a thrilling contest.
