South Sudan Women Premier League brought together Yei Joint Stars and Simba Football Club in the opening game of the season, an encounter that attracted good attendance

By Liam Josh

The year 2025 marked a memorable moment for South Sudan football as the country inaugurated the leagues for both men and women.

South Sudan Women Premier League brought together Yei Joint Stars and Simba Football Club in the opening game of the season, an encounter that attracted a sizeable attendance, especially the supporters of Yei Joint Stars, who raised money to motivate the players, who graced the inaugural match.

Simba opened the account by scoring the first goal in history of the women’s premier league in the third minute through an error caused by the Yei Joint Stars’ number seven in the box, paving way for Helen America to challenge the opponent’s keeper and award his Simba side the opener.

The unbeaten women football recordholders Yei Joint Stars responded in kind, levelling the goal through Immaculate Ambyayo on the 24th minute. The first half ended in a 1-1 draw.

The hosts should have gone 3 up only for Ambyayo’s wasted chances.

Part of the credit to Simba for having put a spirited performance as they dictated the game so well in the first half.

Yei Joint Stars responded through impressive football particularly in the second half period, measured with calmness and authority. Credit to runs made by Dusman Harriet, which yielded a 3-1 win the side.

Sony Harriet, the club’s coach, stated that it was the first time her side was playing against Simba. She attributed the performance of the team to the league being launched abruptly, which slowed her players’ performance tempo.

Regarding Sarah Night’s performance, Sony stated that she remains the undisputed number nine.

“In last year’s South Sudan National Cup, Sarah Night competed for the golden boot. But she missed it by only one goal difference. However, in the South Sudan Cup for Yei local football, Sarah is the top scorer, with 8 goals in three games,” she says.

Meanwhile, Simba coach Joseph, stressed that it was the first game for his side was playing as a complete team and against a leading side.

“It was the first edition and playing against the best team in the country. I believe we are going to correct one or two mistakes. We are going to take it game by game. I believe we are going to improve in the next game, which is next week, against Munuki FC,” he said.

The goal scorer for Simba women on her part says she wasn’t happy for the loss and remained confident that her club will aspire to win the South Sudan Women Premier League.