Juba-based Simba Football Club has clinched a spot in the South Sudan Local Cup semi-finals, defeating Bajur FC 4-1 in a thrilling quarterfinal match at Buluk Stadium.
Obilji Simon initiated the scoring for Simba in the 37th minute of the first half, with the score at 1-0 in Simba’s favor as the half-time whistle blew.
In the 56th minute, Referee Deng Lual awarded Bajur a penalty kick after defender Jacob Malieth obstructed striker Nyang inside the penalty area. Emmanuel successfully converted the penalty, equalizing the score at 1-1.
Simba’s momentum continued with Samuel Duke scoring the second goal in the 59th minute, and substitute Ayoub Alfred notching a goal in the 64th minute, bringing the tally to 3-1 for Simba.
Obiliji Simon completed his impressive performance with two more goals in the 74th minute, securing a 4-1 victory for Simba and their qualification for the semi-finals.
Simon James Yar, head coach of Simba FC, expressed his initial dissatisfaction with the team’s first-half performance but highlighted their ability to rectify their mistakes and make strategic changes that led to their second-half triumph.
On the other hand, Stephan John, head coach of Bajur FC, expressed his team’s regret at losing to Simba and exiting the tournament. He noted that despite their shorter preparation period, his team had performed well in the first half, creating several scoring opportunities. However, Simba’s advantage, playing in the first-tier league while Bajur FC competes in the third-tier league, ultimately proved decisive.
Simba is set to face Jamus FC in the semi-finals next Tuesday.