Congo Brazzaville had to dig deep to brush aside debutants South Sudan as the two teams faced off in a Group B game at the ongoing U20 Africa Cup of Nations.
The Red Devils secured a 2-1 win over the Bright Stars on Monday at the Suez Canal Authority Stadium.
A goal from either half by
The South Sudanese played with a lot of heart on their big day as they appeared at the tournament for the first time but were forced to make and early substitution following injury to defender Sarfino Lado.
The Bright Stars forward Felix Abishai was presented with the first real opportunity of the match under the floodlights at the Suez Canal Stadium.
The lanky striker forced a save from Christophe Wamba with the near post low effort.
The Red Devils grew into the match and enjoyed possession in large parts of the first half but they lacked the cutting edge to trouble Simon Yogusuk in the South Sudan goal.
Deogracious Bassinga put Congo ahead with a close range finish against the run of play at the stroke of half time.
Sousssou Ilendo doubled Congo’s advantage from the penalty spot after skipper Ngongara was brought down in the area.
However, there was a nerve ending for Congo after South Sudan pulled one back through Paul Mara seven minutes from time.
And indeed they came close to finding the equalizer late on through Atiki Abiaza but his low drive hit the side net.
Congo eventually held on to secure victory and move top of the table in Group B.
They face Uganda next on Thursday in a crunch encounter. It should be noted that Uganda also won 2-1 against Central African Republic.