By: Emalex Brown | Sports Hunter South Sudan
South Sudan U-20 have been drawn alongside Kenya U-20 and Burundi U-20 in Group C of the 2026 CAF U-20 AFCON CECAFA Qualifiers, setting up a challenging campaign for the Bright Stars in Tanzania.
The regional qualifiers are scheduled to take place in Dar es Salaam from 16 September to 10 October 2026, with teams competing for qualification to the 2027 CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations.
Group C
1. South Sudan U-20
2. Kenya U-20
3. Burundi U-20
South Sudan will face a stern test against two experienced East African opponents, with Kenya expected to bring physical strength while Burundi's disciplined approach could make the group highly competitive.
The Bright Stars are expected to begin preparations in Juba this week, with head coach John Alier and his technical staff set to begin the process of selecting the final squad for the Tanzania tournament.
Alier named a 58-player provisional squad two days ago as he opened the door for a wide range of talents before the final selection. The extended squad includes both home-based players and South Sudanese players based abroad.
The qualifiers also provide South Sudan with an opportunity for redemption after their previous meeting with Kenya at the U-20 AFCON qualifying level ended in defeat for the Bright Stars.
With a place at the 2027 U-20 AFCON finals on the line, South Sudan will be looking to build a competitive squad capable of navigating the group stage and advancing from the CECAFA region.
The team is expected to enter residential camp in Juba this week, giving Coach Alier and his staff valuable time to work on tactics, fitness and squad combinations before travelling to Dar es Salaam.
For South Sudan's emerging generation, the tournament represents another major opportunity to make their mark on the regional and continental stage.
