Esther Poni’s Emotional Tribute Highlights Life Beyond Football
Photo Caption : South Sudan midfielder Esther Poni displays a personal message to photographers during celebrations after Joan Adong's equalizer against Madagascar in the CAF Women's Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Qualifiers at Juba National Stadium on 6 June 2026.
JUBA, South Sudan – As the Bright Starlets celebrated Joan Adong’s stunning free-kick equalizer against Madagascar on Saturday, midfielder Esther Poni (19) seized a brief moment to tell a story far bigger than football.
Amid the celebrations following South Sudan’s goal in the 1-1 draw against Madagascar in the CAF Women’s Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Qualifiers at Juba National Stadium, Poni walked toward photographers positioned along the touchline and showed her bandaged hands toward their cameras.
Written on the white plaster was a heartfelt message:
“The struggle is for you Mom. Daughters Love. RIP Dad.”
The message was directed at photographers because it would have been difficult for supporters in the stands to read. Through the cameras, Poni hoped her tribute would be seen beyond the stadium.
The emotional gesture reflects the challenges the young midfielder faces away from the pitch. With her mother and siblings living in Uganda, Poni has been working to support her family while pursuing her football career in Juba.
Together with close friend and teammate Joan Adong, the South Sudan playmaker whose free-kick rescued the draw, Poni recently ventured into a small food business. The pair, who are known to be close friends and share accommodation, joined forces to establish a modest restaurant serving chapati, beans, and other local meals.
However, their entrepreneurial journey suffered an early setback when thieves reportedly stole the chairs from the business, forcing the two players to rebuild while continuing their football commitments.
Despite the challenges, both players continue to balance life on and off the field. On Saturday, Adong delivered the moment of footballing magic with her superb equalizer, while Poni's message offered a glimpse into the personal struggles and determination that fuel the Bright Starlets' ambitions.
As South Sudan prepares for the return leg against Madagascar on 9 June, the image of Poni displaying her message may remain one of the most memorable scenes from the evening—a powerful reminder that behind every player is a story of sacrifice, friendship, and perseverance.
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