Harambee Stars faced a tough 2-0 loss against South Sudan’s Bright Stars in Juba during the first leg of the 2025 Africa Nations Championship (CHAN) qualifiers on Sunday afternoon. Two decisive second-half goals lifted South Sudan closer to their first-ever appearance in a senior continental tournament.
Jamus FC’s Ezbon Malish broke the stalemate in the 50th minute, firing South Sudan into the lead. Midfielder Yohanna Juba doubled the score in the 68th minute, securing a vital home victory.
Although Kenya has qualified as one of the tournament hosts, participating in the qualifiers provides a valuable chance for squad development ahead of the championship. The return leg is set for next Sunday in Kampala, where a draw would see South Sudan advance to face either Djibouti or Rwanda in the second round.
Elsewhere in CHAN action, Djibouti claimed a narrow 1-0 win over Rwanda in their first-leg match on Sunday afternoon.
