Bright Stars during training. (Photo: SSFA).

South Sudan are hoping for a miraculous victory against formidable South Africa to rekindle their dream of participating in the AFCON 2025 as the two nations meet for the first time at Juba National Stadium on Tuesday.

The match is a make-or-break moment for the Bright Stars, who already lost 1-0 away to the Republic of Congo on September 5, while South Africa will be dead set on nothing but victory especially after their 2-2 draw against Uganda.

Bafana Bafana touched down in Juba on Sunday morning ahead of the highly anticipated clash as both teams aim to secure a spot in the continental tournament set to be held in Morocco.

The South African squad, led by Head Coach Hugo Broos, arrived with an array of experienced players and promising young talents, showing their determination to snatch all three points.

Upon arrival, the team was welcomed by officials from the South Sudan Football Association (SSFA), South African embassy in Juba and a small group of excited fans.

Broos expressed confidence in his team’s preparation and their readiness to compete in what is not going to be an easy match.

Meanwhile, the Bright Stars are in high spirits in their last ditch attempt to gain confidence from disappointed fans following years of little international breakthrough, with Head Coach Nicolas Dupuis, hopeful of an upset.