SSFF Announces 34-Man Provisional Squad for Djibouti Clash

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By: Emmanuel Patrick Laku




Juba, South Sudan - 8th March 2026 - The South Sudan Football Federation (SSFF) National Teams Committee has announced a 34-player provisional squad for the South Sudan national football team ahead of their double-header against the Djibouti national football team in the preliminary round qualifiers for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.

Both matches will be played at the Juba National Stadium in Juba, with the Bright Star set to host Djibouti’s “Shoremen of the Red Sea” on 26 and 29 March 2026.

The provisional squad announced through the federation's official facebook page brings together 34 players, including 3 goalkeepers, 12 defenders, 9 midfielders, and 10 forwards, as the technical team begins preparations for the crucial AFCON qualifiers.

Among the surprise call-ups is left-back Bangasi Bakasoro of Al Merriekh SC Bentiu, who has featured in only a few matches since returning to competitive football with the club. Another notable inclusion is Lazarus Peter, a forward from Future Stars Football Academy, who recently returned from Europe and earns a place in the provisional squad.

Meanwhile, Kator FC defender Emmanuel Udu has been listed among the forwards, an interesting positional shift in the squad selection.

However, JAMUS SC midfielder Joseph Malish has not been included in the Bright Stars provisional squad, for reasons best known to the selection committee.


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