The Bright Star of South Sudan has defeated Seychelles 2-1 in the first leg match of the preliminary round in 2021 Total Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) qualifiers.

Seychelles Pirates took a surprise lead after 12 minutes with Nigel Hoareau past South Sudan’s goalkeeper Mathiang Matur Mathiang.

But the Bright Star responded quickly to score through Koang Thok and Joseph Kuch to take a 2-1 lead at the Al- Merriekh Stadium in Khartoum, Sudan.

The two teams returned after recess and failed to find the net. South Sudan put the visiting side under pressure, but the Pirates defended well.

“It is good we got a win today. But we need to keep working hard ahead of the return leg in Seychelles next week,” said South Sudan’s head coach Cyprian Ashu.

South Sudan will need to win away in Victoria or afford any kind of draw to qualify vfor the group stage of the qualifiers.

In the other matches of the preliminary round played today Sao Tome and Principe picked a vital 3-1 away win over Mauritius.