South Sudan Defeats Somalia 3-0 in U-17 AFCON CECAFA Qualifiers

Posted On: December 16, 2024
Posted By: Leila Abdi
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South Sudan triumphed over Somalia 3-0 in their opening match of the TotalEnergies U-17 AFCON CECAFA qualifiers in Kampala. The match saw Shakir Antacio, Panon Jou, and Lazarus Peter George Laku score the goals for South Sudan, compelling their coach to express pride in the team’s ability to withstand pressure. South Sudan is now leading Group B, preparing for their next challenge against Sudan.

In the opening match of the TotalEnergies U-17 Africa Cup of Nations CECAFA qualifiers held in Kampala, Uganda, South Sudan secured a significant victory against reigning champion Somalia, winning 3-0. Despite an aggressive start from Somalia, South Sudan quickly took control of the game. Shakir Antacio scored the first goal in the 38th minute with a powerful strike from outside the penalty area. Shortly before halftime, Panon Jou doubled the lead with a well-placed finish following a cross from Lazarus Peter George Laku. In the second half, Laku further solidified South Sudan’s dominance by scoring from a free kick in the 72nd minute before being substituted due to injury. After the match, South Sudan’s coach Nasir Yousif Hassen Bakit expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance, highlighting the importance of maintaining this momentum.

The TotalEnergies U-17 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers are crucial competitions that determine which teams will represent the CECAFA region at the continental tournament next year in Ivory Coast. This particular competition features six teams competing in two groups, with the top two teams from each group qualifying for the semi-finals. South Sudan, coming off a strong performance as 2022 runners-up, faced off against Somalia, the defending champions, making the match significant for both teams’ aspirations in the tournament.

The victory of South Sudan against Somalia in their opening match of the U-17 AFCON qualifiers has set a promising tone for their campaign, positioning them at the top of Group B. With their next match against Sudan on the horizon, South Sudan aims to build on this success. The overall competition remains intense, with other teams vying for a chance to qualify for the prestigious AFCON tournament in Ivory Coast next year.

Original Source: cecafaonline.com

Leila Abdi

Leila Abdi is a seasoned journalist known for her compelling feature articles that explore cultural and societal themes. With a Bachelor's degree in Journalism and a Master's in Sociology, she began her career in community news, focusing on underrepresented voices. Her work has been recognized with several awards, and she now writes for prominent media outlets, covering a diverse range of topics that reflect the evolving fabric of society. Leila's empathetic storytelling combined with her analytical skills has garnered her a loyal readership.