Senegal showed their class and power on home soil as they swept past South Sudan 5–0 in a World Cup qualifier thriller on Thursday night, with four goals coming in the second half after a cagey opening 45 minutes.
The game began with South Sudan holding firm defensively, frustrating the African champions through compact play and spirited teamwork.
For much of the first half, the Bright Stars looked organized and disciplined — until Senegal’s relentless pressure finally broke through in the 29th minute when Ismaïla Sarr fired home the opener.
After the break, the Lions of Teranga returned with renewed intensity and ruthless precision.
Just seconds into the second half, Sadio Mané doubled the lead in the 46th minute with a trademark composed finish.
Moments later, Ismaïla Sarr added his second of the night in the 54th minute, before Nicolas Jackson calmly slotted a penalty in the 59th to extend Senegal’s led to four.
Substitute Chariff Ndiaye completed the rout in the 75th minute, sealing a 5–0 victory for the hosts.
Senegal’s head coach Pape Thiaw praised his side’s performance but also commended South Sudan for their spirit and determination.
“Yes, it was a tough game in the first half until we went for the break and came back strong to change the game,” Thiaw said after the match.
“We got the three points, and that for me is very important. What I like about South Sudan is their strong team spirit — they fight together and defend together. That’s something I truly admire.”
Despite the heavy loss, South Sudan’s coach Nicolas Dupuis remained proud of his team’s effort.
“Five–zero was bad, but it is normal against a team like Senegal because of the quality of players they have,” Dupuis admitted.
“We played well in the first half and almost got a draw, but one mistake cost us. In the second half, it happened again, one mistake, then another and that’s how the game went.”
While Senegal celebrated a convincing win and three valuable points, South Sudan left the pitch with lessons learned and heads held high their teamwork and discipline earning respect from one of Africa’s finest football nations.
