Gurei City Progress to Round of 16 as Super Stars Raise Concerns Over Match Rescheduling

 

Photo credit: SSFF

By: Emmanuel Patrick Laku | Sports Hunter South Sudan

Juba, South Sudan – 14th March 2026 - Gurei City FC have progressed to the Round of 16 of the South Sudan Cup 2025/2026 after a 2-1 victory over Super Stars FC in the second leg of their National Qualifier Playoff at Bulluk Playground in Juba on Tuesday.

Ringo netted a first-half brace for the Juba-based side, while Super Stars FC responded through Juach Ajang, also known as Ramos. The result saw the tie end 2-2 on aggregate, with Gurei City advancing on the away goals rule.

Despite the two-legged format, both matches were played at Bulluk Playground in Juba, in line with competition arrangements.

Rescheduling Communication and Concerns

The South Sudan Football Federation (SSFF) Competition Committee officially informed the secretaries of both clubs about the rescheduling of the National Qualifiers Playoff two-legged knockout fixtures.

Originally scheduled for March 18 and March 24, 2026, the first leg was postponed due to heavy rains. A subsequent communication confirmed that both legs would be rescheduled, with the first played on March 21 and the return leg on March 24—both in Juba.

However, the decision has raised concerns from Super Stars FC.

Acting President Deng Akuei questioned the approach, citing international competition standards:

“When one leg of a two-legged tie is postponed, only that match should be rescheduled, while the other leg remains in effect, according to FIFA and CAF competition regulations.

There is no provision requiring both matches to be replayed unless exceptional circumstances are officially declared, but no communication was received regarding the scheduling of both legs.”

He further expressed frustration over the timing of the notice:

“I was surprised to receive a reschedule notice when the match was only three hours away on March 21, 2026. Any deviation from this must be clearly justified in the competition's written rules.”

 

Looking Ahead

While Gurei City FC celebrate progression to the Round of 16, the situation has sparked debate over fixture management and adherence to established competition regulations.

Second Leg Result:
Gurei City FC 2-1 Super Stars FC

Aggregate: 2-2
Qualified: Gurei City FC (away goals rule)

Photo Credit SSFF