Francis Amin Makes First Move as Returning SSFF President with Juba Stadium Inspection

By Emmanuel Patrick Laku – Sports Hunter South Sudan
Photo Credit: SSFF Media

Juba, South Sudan – Friday, 22nd August 2025 – 

The Executive Committee of the South Sudan Football Federation (SSFF), led by President Francis Amin Michael, on Friday inspected Juba National Stadium, just a day after the Confederation of African Football (CAF) granted approval for the facility to host international fixtures.

The inspection marked the first official visit by Francis Amin since returning to the helm of the federation after defeating Gen. Augustino Maduot Parek in the recent elections.

Speaking during the visit, President Amin said the purpose of the inspection was “to identify and address any challenges that need to be resolved before the stadium can welcome international fixtures.”

He noted that while the venue meets both FIFA and CAF requirements, minor improvements and maintenance tasks still need attention.

Stadium Manager Jalal Abdullah reassured the delegation that the facility is intact and fully prepared to host home games for the Bright Stars and other teams.

The stadium is scheduled to host a historic 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifier between the Bright Stars and the Leopards of DR Congo on 5th September 2025. 

It will also serve as the home ground for Jamus SC in the CAF Champions League and El Merriekh SC Bentiu in the CAF Confederation Cup preliminary rounds.

Renovation of the facility, formerly known as Juba Local Stadium, was first initiated in 2019 during Amin’s first term as SSFF president (2017–2021). The works were completed in 2024 under the administration of Gen. Augustino Maduot Parek. 

Before the upgrade, the stadium was fitted with floodlights and regularly hosted night matches, but the current renovation left it without lighting, meaning evening fixtures are no longer possible.