South Sudan versus Sudan match signifies peace: official
June 10, 2024 (JUBA) – South Sudan’s world qualifier match with neigbouring Sudan will send out a message of hope and peace to the region, an official said.
Tut Gatluak, a security advisor to President Salva Kiir, made the remarks while inspecting Juba national stadium, ahead of the match scheduled for June 11.
“When you see children playing in your house or in the neighborhood, it gives you a positive signal of peace and hope. This is exactly the context of the world cup qualifiers match to be played here on Tuesday between Sudan and our boys. The war in Sudan has affected everything, including sports and with it being played here, it sends out positive signals of commitment to continuing to raise the flag of Sudan and play with others. This means peace and stability”, he stated.
The two countries will play as part of preparations for the world cup qualifier.
Gatluak promised each player 1000 dollars and pledged 10,000 dollars for a win.
“Now I have pledged you 1000 dollars each and if you work hard and succeed, I will reward you with 10,000 dollars each”, he announced.
South Sudan’ Bright Stars already played three matches of the fourth round during which it drew 0-0 against Mauritia, 1-1 against Togo and then lost 4-0 to Senegal.
Gatluak said the president Kiir sent him to raise the morale and spirit of the team during which he would inaugurate and commission the completion of the construction of the national stadium after stalling for three years due to funds.
The world football body (FIFA) intervened and gave 5 million dollars for completion of the project. The new stadium will host football matches against Sudan and South Sudan after the latter was drawn in group B of the FIFA world cup 2026 qualifiers match with Senegal, Togo, Sudan as well as Mauritania.
South Sudan is currently 5th on the table while Sudan is second with seven points.
(ST)