Scorpion FC Beats Rising Stars FC 7-5 Goals in Penalty Knockout

(YEI RIVER COUNTY) – Scorpion Football Club was crowned champions of the South Sudan Independence Cup after edging past Rising Stars Football Club in a thrilling penalty shootout at Nyongwe Playground in Yei Town on Sunday evening.

The highly anticipated final attracted hundreds of football fans and community members who gathered to witness an entertaining contest between two of Yei’s competitive football sides. Both teams displayed remarkable skill, determination and sportsmanship throughout regulation time, with the match ending in a 3-3 draw after the first and second halves.

With neither side able to secure a winning goal during normal play, the championship was decided through a tense penalty shootout. Scorpion FC held their nerve to triumph 7-5, securing the Independence Cup title amid jubilant celebrations from their supporters.

Speaking after the match, the Secretary-General of the Yei Football Association, Isaac Mamur Scopas, described the tournament as more than just a sporting event, saying it reflected the values of unity, hope and opportunity for young people in Yei.

“This match was about more than football. It demonstrated the power of sport as a symbol of unity, hope and opportunity for our youth,” Mamur said.

He noted that sporting activities continue to bring together young people from different communities, fostering peaceful coexistence and strengthening social bonds.

“When we play together, we build a stronger and more peaceful future,” he said.

Mamur added that the Nyongwe Independence League serves as an important platform for promoting discipline, teamwork and friendship among young people.

“The Nyongwe Independence League is a reminder that our youth are our greatest strength, and through sports we can inspire discipline, teamwork and lasting friendships,” he added.

He also commended the organisers for investing in youth development through sports and successfully delivering the tournament.

“Your dedication is helping to shape a generation that believes in unity, peace and progress,” Mamur said.

Meanwhile, spectators praised the tournament for creating a peaceful environment where communities could come together to celebrate sport and national independence.

Betty Amani, who attended the match, said the event signalled a return to peace, unity and harmonious coexistence among young people in Yei.

“We were happy to watch the match in peace and enjoy the game together. To me, this is a positive step towards strengthening peace and love among young people in Yei. We hope such tournaments will continue to bring communities together,” she said.

The Independence Cup tournament formed part of activities marking South Sudan’s Independence celebrations and highlighted the growing role of sport in promoting social cohesion, youth engagement and community development in Yei River County.