South Sudan have qualified for the quarterfinals of the TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations after a goalless draw against Uganda in Egypt.

Despite losing their first game to Congo Brazzaville, the Bright Stars are number three in Group B with four points, after beating Central Africa Republic and drawing against Uganda Hippos.

Uganda dominated much of the game, but South Sudan frustrated their attempts and even proved threatening with their constant counterattacks.

South Sudan would have secured six points to go top of Group B if they had won the East Africa derby at Suez Canal in Ismailia.

The Bright Stars will now face Group C leaders The Gambia.

“The two teams played fair, they gave everything, and we were close to winning but I am very happy with the boys,” Bright Stars coach Peter James told journalists according to CAF.

“They did everything we have been working to see that the team is progressing, and I think this is an amazing moment to see the boys taking the responsibility. You will agree with me that South Sudan football is progressing.”

“As a result, we were able to qualify from the Cecafa zone though we have good teams there we fought until we reached this stage and to qualify for the quarter-finals wasn’t easy, so it indicates that we’re on the right track.”

Uganda’s talented player Mutyaba was named Man of the Match the TotalEnergies-sponsored tournament.

“We wanted a win though but unfortunately we found it very difficult to get a win, but we managed to get a point,” Mutyaba told journalists at a press conference.