Taban Defends Nancy Ibilla After Costly Penalty Miss in Munuki SC’s Final Defeat

By: Emmanuel Patrick Laku | Sports Hunter South Sudan

Juba, South Sudan – 21 March 2026 - Head coach Tito Taban has come to the defense of full-back Nancy Ibilla Joseph following Munuki SC’s 5-3 penalty shootout defeat to Yei Joint Stars FC in the South Sudan Women’s Cup final.

The match, played at Juba National Stadium, ended 1-1 in regulation time before Yei Joint Stars converted all their penalties to seal victory and extend their dominance in the competition.

Ibilla, who captains the South Sudan U-20 national team, stepped up to take Munuki SC’s second penalty in the shootout. Her first attempt to the right was saved by goalkeeper Nawal Isaacs, but the referee ordered a retake after ruling that the goalkeeper had moved off her line.

On the second attempt, Ibilla switched direction, aiming to the left, but Nawal once again produced a brilliant save—proving decisive as Yei Joint Stars maintained a perfect record from the spot.

The miss compounded a difficult run for the defender, who had earlier scored an unfortunate own goal during Munuki SC’s 2-1 victory over Wajuma Women FC in the second leg of the semi-finals at Bulluk Playground.

Despite these setbacks, Taban stood firmly behind his player.

Speaking during the post-match press conference at Juba National Stadium, the coach urged patience and support:

“Concerning Nancy Joseph, she is still a young girl. That was penalties—sometimes it happens.

Most of the time, Munuki SC finish games within regulation time. We have only gone to penalties maybe three times, including two South Sudan Cup (Juab) finals against El Merreikh.

Nancy is one of the best players when it comes to penalties and free kicks. She takes almost all the club’s set-pieces. Today was just not her luck, but God will open for her next time.”

Munuki SC’s defeat means the club remains without a South Sudan Women’s Cup title, while Yei Joint Stars continue their remarkable run, securing yet another trophy.