🇸🇸 EXCLUSIVE | Viola Doki: “We Will Come Back Stronger for South Sudan”

By Emmanuel Patrick Laku | Sports Hunter South Sudan

South Sudan U-17 women’s national team goalkeeper Viola Doki has spoken exclusively to Sports Hunter South Sudan following a challenging FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup 2026 preliminary round campaign.

The junior Bright Starlets fell 2–0 in Juba before suffering a 6–0 defeat in Addis Ababa against Ethiopia, ending their qualification hopes—but for Doki, the experience marks the beginning of a bigger journey.

🎙️ On her debut for South Sudan

“It was a massive honor to represent South Sudan for the first time,” Doki said. “Making my debut and being trusted as the first-choice goalkeeper meant everything to me, even though it was a tough experience.

“I took responsibility for my role, just as my teammates did theirs. Now that the debut is done, it’s about going back, working harder, and improving for the next opportunity.”

🎙️ Reflecting on the two matches

“It was a very difficult campaign for us,” she admitted. “We had high expectations when we wore the national shirt, but we didn’t reach the standard our country expects—and that hurts.

“But we are in this together—no individuals, no blame. We represent millions, and we must be better.”

🎙️ On being first-choice in her first call-up

“Personally, it was an unbelievable honor. But we know we were not good enough.

“As a goalkeeper, every goal we conceded made me reflect—my positioning, my communication, the confidence the team needed from me. I take responsibility, and I will learn from this to come back stronger for my country.”

🎙️ Handling the mental challenge

“In the second leg, mentally it was very tough. I felt like I had let my country and my coaches down. I was emotionally affected.

“But I spoke to myself and reminded myself—the fight is not over. After the game, I asked myself many questions. That’s part of growing as a player.”

🎙️ What’s next?

“The next step is to go back to the pitch, train harder, and come back stronger.”

🎙️ Message to the fans

“To our fans and all South Sudanese, thank you for standing with us.

“We wanted to make you proud, but we didn’t give you the results you deserved. Still, we are not giving up—this journey has just begun.

“We will go back to work, fix what we must, and come back stronger. You deserve a team that reflects the resilience of South Sudan.

“Keep believing in us—we will never stop fighting for this badge, for this country, and for you. 

“May God bless all our fans.”

Sports Hunter South Sudan: Thank you for speaking with us.

Viola Doki: Thank you, Sports Hunter South Sudan.