South Sudan fell 69-66 to Senegal in a closely fought qualifying contest, undone by perimeter lapses that allowed the Lions of Teranga to keep their World Cup hopes alive. The Bright Stars were far from their usual aggressive selves and conceded 14 three-pointers, seven of them in a decisive fourth quarter.
Bul Kuol and Sunday Dech led South Sudan's scoring with 16 and 13 points respectively, yet the Bright Stars could not find an answer to Senegal's urgency. Nuni Omot missed one of two free throws in the closing seconds that would have tied the game at 67.
With South Sudan threatening a late comeback, Senegal pushed the pace and forced fouls. Ibrahima Faye finished the scoring with a dunk on an inbound pass from Brancou Badio, sealing the three-point margin.
Gorgui Dieng did everything he could to keep Senegal in contention for next year's World Cup. He shot 4-for-8 from beyond the arc on his way to a game-high 17 points and completed a double-double with 15 rebounds. FIBA credited his leadership against South Sudan's taller frontline, highlighting how he guided the younger Senegalese players through the game's pivotal moments.
