The Young Legends Academy FC defeated Hot Stars Academy 4-2 in the opening match of the second edition of the Independence Cup for Under-15 Academy Championships in Juba.
Major General Bona Panek Biar, Managing Director of the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces Pension Fund Foundation and Head of the Young Legends Academy, highlighted the significance of this tournament.
He noted that the Independence Cup, now in its second edition, aims to honour the heroes who fought and died for the freedom of South Sudan, particularly those of the SPLA and SPLM.
“We organize this tournament to provide young people with a constructive outlet, encouraging them to focus on studying and practicing sports rather than spending time on the streets,” Biar explained.
Dak Duop Bichiok, South Sudan’s Minister of Public Service and Human Resources Development, expressed his admiration for the work done by the founders of the Young Legends Academy.
He praised the academy for organizing the tournament in honour of the children of the martyrs who fought and died for South Sudan’s independence, noting that two million martyrs made the ultimate sacrifice for the country.
“These young people will be the future generation when their turn comes,” the minister added.
This year’s tournament features sixteen teams divided into four groups. The competition follows a one-round league system, with the top two teams from each group advancing to the second round.
Last year, Al Amal Academy team won the first edition of the Independence Cup for Under-15 Academy Championships.