The Gambia has beaten South Sudan in their African Cup of Nations opening qualifying match on Saturday at Stade Lat Dior. 

A first half goal from Ablie Jallow consigned the visiting South Sudan Bright Stars to their first defeat this year. 

The Gambia takes three points from the win to go top of Group G that includes Mali and Congo. 

The Scorpions played their home game in neighbouring Senegal after CAF banned the national team from playing home games at the Independence Stadium because they failed to meet CAF’s  “minimum requirements” for football stadiums.

Meanwhile, Mali will host Congo later tonight in the group’s other match.

The Scorpions will depart for Congo Brazzaville in the early hours of Sunday morning for the second Group G game on Wednesday.