Senegal delivered a footballing masterclass in Juba, dismantling South Sudan 5-0 in their penultimate Group B match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup African qualifiers. The emphatic victory, played out on October 10 at Juba Stadium, leaves Senegal just one step away from booking their ticket to the World Cup in North America.
Ruthless Senegal Dominate in Juba
From the opening whistle, it was clear Senegal meant business. The visitors controlled possession and tempo, pinning South Sudan deep in their own half. The breakthrough came in the 29th minute when
Ismaila Sarr—the Crystal Palace winger—slotted home his 17th international goal, courtesy of an assist from Iliman Ndiaye.
After a dominant but relatively restrained first half, Senegal exploded after the break.
Sadio Mane, the nation’s all-time top scorer, doubled the lead just a minute into the second half, notching his 46th goal for Senegal. Sarr completed his brace in the 54th minute, further demoralizing the home side.
The onslaught continued as
Nicolas Jackson converted a penalty in the 59th minute, and substitute
Cherif Ndiaye capped the rout in the 76th, sealing a five-goal demolition.
What This Means for World Cup Qualification
With this win,
Senegal remains unbeaten in Group B, sitting atop the table with 21 points from nine matches. Their superior goal difference and consistent form put them in pole position to qualify directly for the 2026 World Cup, with only one group match remaining against Mauritania.
Here’s how Group B stands after the match:
| Team | GP | W | D | L | GD | Pts |
|--------------|----|---|---|---|-----|-----|
| Senegal | 9 | 6 | 3 | 0 | +15 | 21 |
| DR Congo | 9 | 6 | 1 | 2 | +8 | 19 |
| Sudan | 9 | 3 | 4 | 2 | +3 | 13 |
| Togo | 10 | 1 | 5 | 4 | -5 | 8 |
| Mauritania | 9 | 1 | 4 | 4 | -5 | 7 |
| South Sudan | 10 | 0 | 5 | 5 | -16 | 5 |
Only the group winner qualifies automatically for the World Cup, while the runner-up may get a second chance via the inter-confederation playoffs.
South Sudan’s Struggles Continue
For
South Sudan, the defeat was another tough lesson in their World Cup qualifying journey. The Bright Stars remain at the bottom of the group, still searching for their first win and hoping to salvage some pride in their final match against Togo.
Expert Commentary: Senegal’s Golden Generation Shines
Senegal’s depth and attacking prowess were on full display. With stars like Sadio Mane, Ismaila Sarr, and Nicolas Jackson all finding the net, the Lions of Teranga look every bit the continental powerhouse. Head coach Pape Thiaw praised his squad’s focus and hunger, emphasizing the importance of finishing strong in their final group match.
What’s Next?
-
Senegal faces Mauritania on October 14, needing just a draw to guarantee World Cup qualification thanks to their superior goal difference.
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South Sudan will host Togo on October 13, aiming to end their campaign on a positive note.
Takeaways
-
Senegal is on the brink of World Cup qualification after a dominant performance.
-
South Sudan’s campaign ends in disappointment, but the experience could prove invaluable for their young squad.
- All eyes now turn to the final round of matches, where Senegal’s golden generation looks to seal their place on football’s biggest stage.
Sources
1. Senegal beats South Sudan 5-0 in FIFA World Cup qualifier - Xinhua
2. South Sudan vs. Senegal - Final Score - October 10, 2025
3. Senegal look to blow neighbours Mauritania away - African Football
4. South Sudan 0-5 Senegal (Oct 10, 2025) Final Score - ESPN
5. Senegal put one foot in World Cup after South Sudan annihilation
6. South Sudan v Senegal 10/10/2025 | Football - Flashscore
