Debut Goal, Heavy Loss: Keer Mangar Shines in Bright Stars' 4-1 Defeat to DR Congo

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 Debut Goal, Heavy Loss: Keer Mangar Shines in Bright Stars' 4-1 Defeat to DR Congo

By Emmanuel Patrick Laku | Sports Hunter South Sudan. Juba, September 7, 2025

El Merriekh SC Bentiu forward Keer Mangar marked his senior national team debut with a goal, despite South Sudan falling 4-1 to DR Congo in a 2026 FIFA World Cup African Qualifier played on Friday at the Juba National Stadium.

Mangar, who was the top scorer in the 2024/2025 Juba Football Association first division league while playing for Atlabara FC, came on as a second-half substitute, replacing David Sebit at the break.

His impact was immediate. In the 68th minute, the 18-year-old forward found the net with a composed left-footed finish after connecting to a low cross from Samuel Taban — a well-worked move that offered the Bright Stars a moment of joy in an otherwise disappointing performance.

"Thanks Almighty Allah 🙏 First appearance, first goal for the country," Mangar wrote on social media after the match.

Despite his personal milestone, Mangar expressed regret over the result:

"We’re really so sorry for disappointing our beloved people. Next time, better."

The defeat leaves South Sudan bottom of Group B in the African Qualifiers, with only 3 points from seven matches — five losses and two draws — officially ending their hopes of reaching the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The Bright Stars will now travel to Nouakchott to face Mauritania on September 9th, still chasing their first win of the qualifying campaign.

Mangar's debut goal, however, offers a glimmer of hope — a young striker stepping up with composure, promise, and belief in a brighter future for South Sudanese football.


Photo Credit: pedi pictures

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