Bright Stars’ AFCON hopes dimmed in Malawi loss

South Sudan failed to mount a challenge for the first ever qualification for African Cup of Nations after the Bright Stars fell to Malawi by a solitary goal on Wednesday.

The match which was played in Khartoum was set to be the game-changer should the boys have pulled a win. Heading into the game with three points, South Sudan would have doubled their points and a qualification dream would be within reach. But this was not to be the case. It was the Flames that triumphed despite playing in an away playground.

Elsewhere, Burkina Faso qualified for the AFCON after registering a barren draw against Uganda. They have nine points, a point ahead of the Uganda Cranes and two points ahead of Malawi. This means that a match which will pit Malawi against Uganda will be a hell of a game as each team will be breaking the sweat to qualify.

Burkina Faso having qualified may not be very keen on winning against the Bright Stars but may be motivated by the sportsmanship mentality of winning to maintain a good record.