South Sudan vs Argentina, FIBA Women's Olympic Pre-Qualifying Tournament, 2026, Today Match Prediction

Teams Preview

South Sudan Preview

South Sudan Women produced one of the biggest surprises of the FIBA Women’s Olympic Pre-Qualifying Tournament 2026, edging Brazil 63-61 in overtime. Despite entering the tournament as the lowest ranked team, South Sudan showed remarkable composure against a Brazil side ranked ninth in the FIBA Women’s World Ranking.

Adut Bulgak was the standout performer, dominating with 25 points, 22 rebounds and 2 steals for a game high efficiency rating of 33. Maria Gakdeng added 11 points and 15 rebounds while debutant Moira Joiner added 13 points, 4 rebounds, 2 assists and 2 steals.

Offensively, South Sudan shot 25% from the field, including 22.2% from the perimeter and 52.5% from the free throw line. Defensively, they dominated the boards 67-49 and made key defensive stops when needed the most.

The win gives South Sudan a major boost in Group A and puts them in an excellent position ahead of their crucial meeting with Argentina.

Overall, the team averages 63 points per game, while dishing out 9 assists. Defensively, they record 67 rebounds, 6 steals and 1 block. 

Argentina Preview

Argentina Women endured a disappointing opening to the FIBA Women’s Olympic Pre-Qualifying Tournament 2026, falling 57-35 to New Zealand. The result was particularly damaging because Argentina entered the competition as Group A favorites after recently winning the FIBA Women’s AmeriCup 2027 South American Qualifiers.

Florencia Chagas led the scoring with just 10 points, the only player from the team who managed double figure scoring. Key players like Melisa Gretter just added 1 point and 7 assists, failing to provide enough offensive spark. 

Argentina struggled offensively, converting just 20% from the field, including 13.2% from the three point range. Their scoring deteriorated dramatically after halftime, with only 11 points across the second half and just three in the fourth quarter. Defensively, they got outrebounded 53-32 on the boards and allowed New Zealand to convert 66.7% from deep. 

The loss leaves Argentina 0-1 in Group A and puts greater pressure on their remaining games. Overall, the team averages 35 points per game, while dishing out 11 assists. Defensively, they record 32 rebounds, 13 steals and 2 blocks. 

South Sudan vs Argentina Starting Lineups